The famous Parthenon temple in Athens is without scaffolding for the first time in two centuries, offering visitors an unrestricted view of the historic monument.
The scaffolding that had covered the western facade for about 20 years was recently removed, marking an important moment in the history of the restoration of the Acropolis.
The Parthenon, built in the 5th century BC to honor the goddess Athena, is one of the most recognized symbols of world cultural heritage and the most visited tourist destination in Greece, with 4.5 million visitors last year alone.
The Minister of Culture of Greece, Lina Mendoni, said that the removal of the pier has restored a sight that has not been seen for at least 200 years.
“At least two generations have not seen the Parthenon visually free,” she said, adding: “But to see the Parthenon completely free, as it is today, is something that has not happened for at least 200 years.”
However, this cheap look won’t last long. Within a month, a new set of piers is expected to be erected on the west side for the next phase of conservation.
According to Ms. Think, the new piers will be “lighter and aesthetically much closer to the logic of the monument”.
The Parthenon’s conservation work is part of a long-term effort to deal with damage caused by fires, earthquakes and erosion. The current phase of the restoration is expected to last until early next summer.
Meanwhile, Greece continues efforts to recover the Elgin Marbles – ancient friezes that were removed from the Parthenon in the early 19th century by Scottish nobleman Lord Elgin. Recent talks with the British Museum have revived hopes of their return to Athens.
Minister Mendoni emphasized that the “natural place” for exhibiting marbles is the Acropolis Museum, built in 2009 for this very purpose.
