Parthenon

The historic ruins of the Parthenon and Temple of Hephaestus in Athens, Greece, serve as a reminder of the city's ancient past. Originally erected in the 5th century BCE, the Parthenon served as a temple to the goddess Athena, while the Temple of Hephaestus is believed to have been the place of worship for the god of the same name. Together, the two remain iconic monuments in the city and must-sees for any traveler or photographer. Both are easily accessible from the city center and can be reached via public transport, tour buses, and hired vehicles. Before planning a visit make sure to research the proper entry requirements and guided tours. From the Parthenon, visitors will be treated to incredible vistas of the city and visit numerous cultural attractions. Inside, visitors will find an impressive collection of artifacts, including the incredible chryselephantine sculptures designed by Pheidias. The Temple of Hephaestus is considered to be one of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples, although much of its interior is not open to the public. Both sites are excellent places to take photographs, so be sure to bring a camera and plenty of memory cards.