Fifth-century Athens - Arts and Literature

Arts and Literature

Historians consider the Athenian 5th and 6th centuries BCE as the Golden Age of sculpture and architecture. In this period the ornamental elements and the technique employed did not vary from the previous period. What characterizes this period is the quantity of works and the refinement and perfection of the works. Most were religious in nature, mainly sanctuaries and temples. Some examples from this period are:

  • The reconstruction of the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
  • The reconstruction of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, which was destroyed by an earthquake.
  • The reconstruction of the Acropolis of Athens, the marble city for the glory of the gods. The site had suffered from a fire started by the Persians and lay in ruins for more than 30 years. Pericles initiated its reconstruction with white marble brought from the nearby quarry of Pentelicon. The best architects, sculptors and workers were gathered to complete the Acropolis. The construction lasted 20 years. Financing came from the Delian League. When finished, it was the grandest and most perfect monument in the history of Greek art.

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