Acropolis

Generally speaking, an "acropolis" is a town or temples that have been erected on any detached hill. The one in Athens, however, is what usually comes to mind when a reference has been made to the Acropolis. The Acropolis lies south of the original city, is oval in shape (about 500 by 1000 feet), and is only reasonably accessible on the west side. Successive generations of Athenians built religious sanctuaries there. The most famous of these sanctuaries, the Parthenon, survives to this day. It is dedicated to Athena, the patroness of the city-state which bears her name. Among other things, Athena is the goddess of wisdom, water, arts, crafts, and battle.

View of the Acropolis
Photo: Steven S. Tigner

Map of Athens (207K)