The Parthenon and Its Impact in Modern Times

Few if any would dispute the Parthenon's position as the most important monument in Western civilisation. In its art and architecture, it is the ultimate expression of the Golden Age of Pericles, when democracy was born. But few also realise that the Parthenon achieved that «ideal» status only in relatively modern times; until the late eighteenth century, when the first detailed pictures of the structure were published and the Elgin Marbles removed to London, the Parthenon was perceived only as a superb work of the Classical Greek period.
As work now proceeds atop the Acropolis on the restoration of the monument, what better time for a multifaceted examination of the Parthenon. This fascinating volume brings together eleven original essays by noted scholars and writers, each of whom offers a different perspective on this greatest of all cultural monuments.
In addition to providing detailed descriptions of the sculpture and architecture of the Parthenon, the essays treat such diverse topics as the place of the Parthenon in the history and theory of modern architecture, depictions of the Parthenon in art through the ages, the Parthenon as appreciated by contemporary Greek society, and the Parthenon in the consciousness of modern Greek poets and thinkers. The Parthenon was built in the fifth century BC as a temple to the Goddess Athena; today, it is a symbol of the noblest roots of Western society.

Winner in the History Category American Institute of Architects International Architecture Book Awards, 1997
"The Parthenon is of such unparalleled importance in the culture of the world that is worth having a compendium of drawings, references, histories, and writings about it.
The contents of this single volume could fill a dozen shelves." (AIA Jury)

138 colour, 198 b/w illustrations, 105 drawings and diagrams, notes, bibliography, index, hardback with cardboard coverbox.