A brief history of The Acropolis of Athens

Rising a 156 meters above Athens, the Acropolis (‘meaning fortified hill’) of Athens is by far the most remakable place in all of Greece. Other Greek city states like Argos, Rhodos, Corinth, Thebes and many more also have an acropolis, yet the Acropolis of Athens stands out for its magnificent buildings and architecture.

Around 2000 BC the first people settled alongside the hill. Over time the settlement grew into a mighty flourishing and wealthy city state. Athens had its golden age in 500 BC, during this period most of the infamous buildings you know were built because of the huge amount of wealth Athens got from the Delian league. The Delian league was formed after the Persian invasion of Greece which caused destruction and chaos to Greece. The purpose of this allience was to prevent themselfs from another invasion. It did not only bring security but also boosted trade between the involved city-states. Athens being its leader, became the wealthiest city-state in Greece.

Due to the Persians the Acropolis’ buildings and temples were flattened and new space opened up. It was at this time that the famous Parthenon, Propyleia, Temple of Nike and the Erechteion were built. Many talented architects and sculptors like Phidias, Mnesikles, Iktinos, Alikrates etc., worked years upon years to create these beauty’s who still make people’s jaw drop.