The Parthenon in Athens Revealed Without Scaffolding After Two Centuries
Image: kaetana/Depositphotos
The vista of the Parthenon surveying Athens from the Acropolis stands as one of the most stunning views globally. A symbol of Ancient Greece, the marble structure creates a connection between the historical and the modern. However, portions of the site have been shrouded in scaffolding for years to aid in the preservation and restoration efforts of the edifice. At last, after nearly 200 years, the Parthenon is entirely devoid of these metal supports.
The recently removed scaffolding was erected approximately 20 years ago along the western facade. As this side provides the most spectacular views from street level, its absence is particularly striking to visitors. Nonetheless, various forms of scaffolding have surrounded the Parthenon for conservation purposes since the 19th century.
While the absence of scaffolding is thrilling, this situation is only a short-term solution. Conservation efforts must continue, and new scaffolding will be erected on the Parthenon’s western side in November. Fortunately, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni proclaims that it will be “lighter and aesthetically much more aligned with the monument’s concept.”
This forthcoming scaffolding will also remain in place for a shorter duration; it will be removed in early summer 2026, permanently freeing the Parthenon from these metal structures.
The ancient site, constructed in the mid-5th century BC to honor Athena, the patron goddess of the city, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. It is celebrated as an architectural marvel for its proportions and design and serves as a lasting emblem of democracy and art. The Parthenon is also the most visited tourist attraction in Greece, with 4.5 million visitors recorded in 2024 alone.
To address the issue of over-tourism, which has posed additional risks to the structure, visitors to the Parthenon are now required to secure reservations for timed entry slots. For more information on how to organize a visit, head over to the Acropolis website. If a trip to Athens is not in your near future, you can experience the original magnificence of the building through this 3D model developed by archaeologist Juan de Lara.
Sources: Greece’s celebrated Parthenon free of scaffolding for the first time in decades; You Can View the Parthenon Without Scaffolding for the First Time in Decades
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