Posted by What does Acropolis mean?
The term Acropolis comes from the Greek words “akron” (ἄκρον), meaning “height” or “peak,” and “polis” (πόλις), meaning “city.” Acropolis therefore means “upper city” or “high city.”
In ancient times, acropolises were fortified heights that served as strategic locations and often had religious significance. The most famous acropolis is that in Athens, which was an important religious and cultural center.
What is the Acropolis?
The Acropolis of Athens is Greece’s most famous landmark. The ancient fortress sits atop a 156-meter-high cliff overlooking the city and was once the religious center of Athens. Its most important buildings include the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Today, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers impressive views over Athens.
Our articles about the Acropolis of Athens |
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| Overview | Museum |
| Directions | Opening hours |
| Guided tours | Online tickets |
| Parthenon | Erechtheum |
| Propylaea | Dionysus Theater |
| Acropolis frequently asked questions | |
Where is the Acropolis?
The Acropolis is located in the center of Athens on a 156-meter-high rock and is one of Greece’s most famous landmarks. It towers over the city and was the religious and cultural center of Athens in ancient times. From here, you can enjoy impressive views of the Greek capital and its surroundings. The Acropolis is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most visited attractions.
How old is the Acropolis? When was the Acropolis built?
The Acropolis of Athens is over 2,400 years old. Its most famous structures, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea, were built in the 5th century BC under the reign of Pericles. The rock was inhabited long before that – the first traces date back to the Bronze Age.
Who built the Acropolis?
The Acropolis of Athens was built in the 5th century BC. It was built in the 4th century BC under the reign of the statesman Pericles. The most famous buildings, including the Parthenon, were designed by the architects Iktinus and Callicrates. The sculptor Phidias was responsible for the artistic design. The rock was already inhabited before this time, but it was only under Pericles that the impressive temple complex, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built.
Why was the Acropolis built?
The Acropolis of Athens was built in the 5th century BC as the religious and cultural center of the city. It served primarily as a sanctuary of the goddess Athena, the patron saint of Athens. The Parthenon, the most famous structure on the Acropolis, was her sacred temple. At the same time, the Acropolis symbolized the power and prosperity of Athens during its heyday.
What did the Acropolis look like in the past?
The Acropolis of Athens was once a magnificent center with elaborate temples, statues, and colorful decorations. The Parthenon, with its massive statue of the goddess Athena, was the centerpiece of the complex. The temples and buildings were painted in bright colors, and the streets were lined with statues and altars. In ancient times, the Acropolis was not only a religious sanctuary but also a symbol of the power and wealth of Athens. Today, many buildings remain only as ruins, but their impressive remains give an impression of their former grandeur.
This is roughly what the Acropolis looked like in ancient times.
When was the Acropolis destroyed?
The Acropolis of Athens has been damaged several times throughout history. The first major destruction occurred in 480 BC, when the Persians conquered the city and burned many of its buildings. Later, the Acropolis was rebuilt under Pericles. In the 17th century, the Parthenon suffered severe damage when the Ottomans used it as a gunpowder store, and an explosion was triggered by a Venetian attack (1687). Despite further damage from wars, earthquakes, and looting, many parts of the Acropolis have survived to this day.
Where to buy Acropolis tickets?
Tickets for the Acropolis of Athens can be purchased in several ways:
On-site: There are ticket booths at the entrance to the Acropolis where visitors can purchase their tickets directly.
Online: Tickets can be purchased in advance via ticket platforms such as Getyourguide.de. This is especially recommended during peak season to avoid long lines.
Combination tickets: There are also combination tickets that include admission to several archaeological sites in Athens, including the Acropolis. These tickets are also available online.
Acropolis online tickets via GetYourGuide. What tickets are available?
You can purchase various online tickets for the Acropolis in Athens on GetYourGuide. Here are some available options:
Standard Acropolis Entrance Ticket: This ticket allows direct access to the Acropolis without waiting in line. It is provided as an e-ticket that you can show on your smartphone. You can optionally add an audio guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
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Combination ticket for the Acropolis and 6 archaeological sites: This combination ticket gives you access to the Acropolis and six other important archaeological sites in Athens, including the Ancient Agora, the Roman Forum, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. This ticket offers excellent value for those who want to visit multiple sites.
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Acropolis Ticket with Optional Audio Guide or Live Guide: In addition to admission to the Acropolis, you can choose whether you want a digital audio guide for your smartphone or a live guide. Both options offer in-depth insights into the history and architecture of the Acropolis.
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Combination Ticket for the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum: This ticket allows entry to both the Acropolis and the nearby Acropolis Museum, which displays numerous artifacts from the site. You can optionally add an audio guide to enhance your visit.
GetYourGuide
Acropolis Ticket with Virtual Reality Audio Guide: Experience the Acropolis in an innovative way with a virtual reality app and a multilingual audio guide, providing a comprehensive insight into the history and significance of the site.
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Why buy Acropolis tickets online?
Buying Acropolis tickets online offers several advantages:
1. No waiting in line
With an online ticket, you can skip the often very long lines at the ticket office and go directly to the entrance. This can save a lot of time.
2. Convenient booking
You can purchase tickets from anywhere, whether at home or on the go. This way, you can avoid the disappointment of sold-out tickets on-site.
3. Combo tickets and discounts
Many online platforms offer combo tickets that include admission to multiple attractions. There are often discounts or special offers that aren’t available on-site.
4. Digital tickets on your smartphone
No printing required – most tickets can simply be shown on your phone. This is environmentally friendly and convenient.
5. Additional extras
Audio guides or guided tours can be added to many online tickets, allowing you to learn more about the Acropolis.
Acropolis of Athens – Any further questions?
Contact us: info@griechenland-insel.de. We’ll be happy to answer your questions!