The Acropolis has been the heart and soul of Athens for millenia, and many temples have graced its hill. What we would see today was the rebuilding in 450 BCE, when the Athenians, fresh from their victory over the Persians, decided to rebuild the destroyed buildings on a grand scale.

Pericles, Athens’ leader at the time, funneled Athens' newfound wealth from donations by allies in the Delian League into a massive rebuilding program, led by the visionary architect/sculptor Pheidias. The result is an incredible 4-building ensemble: the Propylaea (entrance gate), Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike.