Where is the Huge Statue of Athena Located?

The awe-inspiring statue of Athena known as the Athena Parthenos was originally located in the Parthenon on the Athens Acropolis, Greece. This magnificent statue, crafted by the renowned sculptor Phidias around 438 BC, was made of gold and ivory, a technique known as chryselephantine.

The Original Statue's Fate

The original Athena Parthenos now lies only as a memory in the annals of history. It was moved from the Parthenon in Athens to the city of Constantinople, where a catastrophic fire tragically destroyed it, leaving no trace of its former glory.

However, the spirit of Phidias's creation still lives on, thanks to the remarkable efforts of artist Alan LeQuire. In 1990, he created a full-sized replica of the original statue, standing at an impressive 37 feet 8 inches (11.5 meters), which can now be admired in the replica Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee, USA.

Understanding the Original Statue

Sculptor Phidias was a master of creating statues in gold and ivory, and his Athena Parthenos was undoubtedly among his greatest works. His statue of Olympian Zeus in this medium was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World in ancient times, a testament to his skill and the awe-inspiring nature of his creations.

Phidias's achievement in Athens prompted him to undertake the even more ambitious task of creating a statue for Olympia, which became known as one of the world wonders of its time.

Personal Reflection and Appreciation

While modern replicas and reconstructions can offer us a glimpse of the original's grandeur, these cannot capture the full essence of Phidias's artistry. My personal admiration for the Athena Parthenos statue runs deep, especially considering that Athena is one of my favorite Greek mythological figures. The regret I feel for the original Athena Parthenos's non-survival is profound, but the replica in Nashville provides a unique opportunity to experience its majesty and beauty.

Through the dedicated efforts of artists like LeQuire and the enduring legacy of Phidias, the Athena Parthenos continues to inspire wonder and awe, even if the original no longer stands in its former home.