An iconic European attraction can now be seen without scaffolding for the first time in 20 years.
The Parthenon was constructed around 2,500 years ago in the middle of the 1st century BC by the ancient Greeks.
When it was built, the impressive structure was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, a Greek goddess also known as Athena the Virgin.
For centuries, hordes of people have clambered the hill of the Acropolis to see the temple.
But for the last 20 years the Parthenon has seen scaffolding mounted on parts of its pillars and walls.
The construction work partially obstructed some of the iconic attraction but was essential to allow vital conservation to be completed.
The scaffolding has now been removed and visitors can enjoy a view of the Parthenon without the metal bars for the first time in 20 years.
It also marks the first time the structure won’t have work happening since the nineteenth century.
The Parthenon was constructed around 2,500 years ago in mid-century BC by the ancient Greeks
The Telegraph reported how Culture Minister Lina Mendoni commented, ‘at least two generations have not seen the Parthenon visually free’.
The minister added: ‘But to see the Parthenon completely free, as it stands today, is something that has not happened for at least 200 years.’
But tourists only have one month to catch a glimpse of the Parthenon before more construction continues.
Thankfully the new scaffolding won’t be as bulky and according to Time Out, Mendoni said it would be ‘lighter and aesthetically much closer to the logic of the monument’.
The minister reportedly told national Greek radio that without the construction work, everyone is ‘seeing a different, a completely different monument’.
What’s more, the additional work shouldn’t be around for too long. It is expected to be finished by next summer.
Mendoni commented that when the conservation is over, ‘the Parthenon will be completely freed of this scaffolding too, and people will be able to see it truly free.’
Thousands of visitors have been flocking to the British Museum to see the Parthenon Sculptures.
But for the last 20 years the Parthenon has seen scaffolding mounted on parts of its pillars and walls
Also known as the Elgin Marbles, the Parthenon Sculptures are a collection of marble decorative statues taken from the temple to Athena on the Acropolis in Athens.
While the famous marble carvings are now white, a new study suggests that they were once brilliantly coloured.
Researchers from the Art Institute of Chicago found that the goddess’ clothes in particular were highly decorated, with designs possibly showing running figures or floral patterns.
Dr Giovanni Verri, lead researcher, said: ‘The elegant and elaborate garments were possibly intended to represent the power and might of the Olympian gods, as well as the wealth and reach of Athens and the Athenians.’
