Parthenon Unveiled: Scaffolding Removed After 200 Years
For the first time in two centuries, Greece’s iconic historic buildings are viewable without scaffolding. If you’re thinking about visiting, now’s the time.
Located atop Athens’ Acropolis, the Parthenon has been under constant restoration since the early 1800s. Recently, on October 11, reports indicated that the last piece of scaffolding on the Parthenon’s west facade, a project that has been going on since 2005, has finally been taken down.
This means that for the first time in quite a while, the view of the temple is completely unobstructed. Tourists, in particular, are likely to appreciate this, as the west side offers the most scenic angle of the temple from the street.
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni mentioned in a Sky Radio interview that the scaffolding came down officially by the end of September. She remarked, “They seem to be looking at a completely different monument.”
Yet, this clear view won’t last forever. Mendoni indicated that new scaffolding is set to go up in early November. However, it’s expected to be less intrusive and more in line with the monument’s aesthetic.
She also added that the preservation work should wrap up by early next summer. At that point, the Parthenon will be free from all scaffolding, allowing visitors a truly unobstructed view.
With around 4.5 million tourists expected to visit in 2024, the Parthenon remains one of Greece’s most cherished attractions. In its history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has stood as a lasting tribute to Athena, the goddess it was built to honor back in the 5th century BC.
