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Parthenon

Information

Athens-Greece

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Information

The Parthenon is one of the most iconic architectural and cultural symbols of ancient Greece, located on the Acropolis of Athens. It was built between 447 and 432 B.C. during the height of the Athenian Empire under the leadership of Pericles. The structure served as a temple dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the patron goddess of Athens.

Parts in the presentation.- Foundation and stylobate (base). - Columns as Load-Bearing structures. - Triangular pediments and roof. - Walls and internal structure. - Use of metal fastenings and precision engineering.

Architectural style

The Parthenon is primarily a Doric temple, yet it incorporates Ionic features, making it unique among Greek temples. This blending of styles was a deliberate design choice to unify Greek architectural traditions, symbolizing Athens’ leadership and innovation. Doric Features: • The use of sturdy and simple columns with no bases and fluted shafts. • Triglyphs and metopes on the frieze, typical of the Doric order. • The overall proportions emphasize harmony and strength. Ionic Features: • A continuous frieze around the cella, which is characteristic of the Ionic order. • Slender, elegant design elements that contrast with the robustness of Doric features.

Foundation and stylobate (base)

The foundation and base of the Parthenon play a critical role in ensuring stability: Foundation: • A deep stone foundation provides a stable platform for the entire structure. • The foundation was carefully leveled to prevent shifting over time. Stylobate: • The top platform is slightly curved upwards to counteract the illusion of sagging and to enhance stability by evenly distributing the weight across the entire base. • This curvature also prevents water pooling, reducing erosion over time.

Columns as load-bearing structures

The columns are the primary support system of the Parthenon that makes a compression effort: Weight Distribution: • The columns transfer the weight of the roof and entablature directly to the foundation. • Their vertical arrangement ensures that the load is evenly distributed across the base. Drum Construction: • Each column is made of several marble drums stacked on top of one another, held together by metal pins or dowels. • The use of multiple drums allows for better distribution of force and easier replacement of damaged sections.

Triangular pediments and roof

The design of the roof and pediments minimizes structural stress: Weight Distribution: • The triangular pediments reduce the horizontal weight load, directing it downward toward the columns. • The sloping roof evenly distributes the weight to the outer walls and columns. Marble Tiles: • The interlocking marble roof tiles are lightweight compared to solid slabs, reducing the overall load on the structure.

Walls and internal structure

The inner chamber also contributes to the Parthenon’s stability: Thick Walls: • The walls of the cella are made of large marble blocks fitted tightly without mortar. These thick walls act as both a support for the roof and a stabilizing core for the temple. Interior Columns: • Two tiers of Ionic columns within the cella support the inner roof and distribute weight away from the walls, preventing collapse.

Use of metal fastenings and precision engineering

The Parthenon was built with extraordinary precision, which is crucial to its structural stability: • Blocks of marble were cut and polished to fit together perfectly, creating a self-supporting structure without the need for adhesives. • Optical refinements, such as slightly inward-leaning columns, ensure that weight is centered and evenly distributed.

Clamps and Dowels: • Blocks and drums are held together with iron clamps and dowels, which are coated in lead to prevent rusting. This ensures long-term structural integrity and prevents the pieces from shifting. Seismic Adaptability: • The absence of mortar allows the structure to flex slightly during earthquakes, making it more resistant to seismic damage.

That's all thank you for your attention

Yassmin & Laura Lu.