Parthenon

Built between 447 and 432 BC, the temple was dedicated to Greek goddess Athena and originally housed her cult image, a giant ivory and gold-plated statue by Fidias. The restored temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a striking reminder of the glory of ancient Greece with its grand marble facade, classic Doric columns, and elaborate sculptural friezes. The site also serves as a fascinating chronicle of Athens’ history.

The best way to visit the Parthenon is on a walking tour of the Acropolis of Athens, including neighboring ruins such as the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. First-time visitors to Athens can also combine a visit with a city sightseeing tour; a half-day trip to the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion; or even a food-focused city tour. History buffs can tack on a tour of the Ancient Agora or a visit to the New Acropolis Museum.

• The Parthenon is most often visited on half- or full-day city tours of ancient Athens.

• Come prepared for the weather, as the Parthenon is an indoor/outdoor experience.

• A wheelchair lift is available to the top of the Acropolis.

The Parthenon is located within the Acropolis on a hilltop in central Athens. Entry is via Dionysiou Areopagitou or Theorias, and the nearest underground train station is Akropoli.

The Parthenon is open from April to October, Monday from late morning to evening, and Tuesday to Sunday from morning to evening; November to March, it's open daily from morning to mid-afternoon. As with most popular tourist attractions, it's worth arriving early to beat the crowds.

In the early 19th century, when Athens was under Turkish rule, sculptures from the Parthenon were sold to Englishman Lord Elgin. The artifacts, nicknamed the Elgin Marbles, are now on display in London's British Museum, but they remain a point of contention for the Greek government, which still insists they should be returned.

No, you need to purchase a ticket to enter the Acropolis and explore the Parthenon and other ruins in the archaeological site up close. You can buy a single-entry ticket for just the Acropolis or a combination ticket with admission to six other ancient sites in Athens.

The Parthenon sits on a clifftop above Athens and can be reached on foot in about 10 to 15 minutes from the ticket offices at its two entrances just below. An elevator provides access for visitors with limited mobility, but all others must walk up the steady slope to the Acropolis.

Aside from a steeper stretch just before reaching the top, climbing to the top of the Parthenon is not challenging for visitors who do not have mobility issues. The route offers splendid views over Athens, so you can stop to catch your breath and snap photos.

No, there is no dress code, but remember that this open-air archaeological site can get scorching during the midday hours in summer, and there is very little shade. Wear a hat and sunblock, light clothing, and comfortable shoes that will stand up to the uneven ground inside the site.

The Parthenon gets very hot and crowded during the midday hours in summer, making exploring the ancient site a chore. Opt to visit as soon as it opens in the morning or in the final afternoon hours before closure to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds.

Yes, the Parthenon is one of the world's most significant ancient Greek ruins and the largest Doric temple ever built. Its well-preserved remains continue to impress with their sheer size and ingenious feat of optical illusion that makes the columns appear perfectly straight despite their height.