Nearly 2,500 years ago, the Parthenon was built on a high hilltop in the city of Athens. When it was finished, it was the biggest temple ever seen in mainland Greece. Inside stood a colossal statue of the goddess Athena, made of gold and ivory, and towering some 12 metres high. The Parthenon was built entirely from the finest white marble and decorated on the outside with marble sculptures. These carvings tell stories of ancient Greek gods and heroes and also show the Athenian people themselves, gathered for a festival in honour of their gods. Come and explore the Parthenon and its famous sculptures.