Propylaea, Athens

The Propylaea, the grand entrance to the Acropolis—because even in ancient Greece, you needed a proper gateway to impress your guests. Every year, thousands of visitors pass through this monumental doorway, retracing the steps of philosophers, warriors, and possibly a few very lost tourists from antiquity. Now, if you’re wondering where the original staircase went… well, time took care of that. Instead, modern pathways guide you in and out, making your ascent a little smoother than what ancient Athenians might have experienced.

Designed by architect Mnesicles—who clearly had an eye for drama—the Propylaea was built between 437 and 432 BC, proving that even the entrances in Athens had to be masterpieces. The structure boasts a central building flanked by two wings, with Doric columns holding things down on the east and west, while Ionic columns add a bit of flair in the middle. This was actually the first classical structure to mix Doric and Ionic styles so visibly—like an architectural trendsetter before trends were a thing. The ceiling? – It was originally painted with a heavenly scene, just in case the sky itself wasn’t impressive enough.

Now, picture this: ancient pilgrims making their way through, as five heavy wooden doors opened one by one—like the ultimate suspenseful reveal. To the north, the only fully completed room, the Pinakotheke, served as a resting spot for visitors and doubled as an art gallery. According to the geographer Pausanias, its walls once displayed stunning frescoes and paintings.

Through Greek, Roman, and Byzantine rule, the Propylaea stood strong—until 1656, when an unfortunate explosion turned part of it into rubble. Thankfully, restoration efforts since 1984 have helped bring some of its lost grandeur back.

Tip:
Just beyond the Propylaea, on your right, you’ll spot the remains of the Sanctuary of Artemis Brauronia, dating back to the 4th century BC. Because why stop at one historical marvel when you can have two?