The Parthenon towers on the hillside of Centennial Park, a spectacular building that bewitches and beckons visitors upon first sight. Surrounded by the scenic park and the waterway known as Lake Watauga, this area is perfect for morning strolls and afternoon picnics. The temple continues its legacy as a symbol of the city of Nashville, a city that generates its own mythology of sorts, filled with epic tales, local legends, and modern-day heroes.
The Temple
The Parthenon was originally built as the centerpiece for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, marking 100 years of statehood for Tennessee. As Nashville was highly regarded as an epicenter of art, culture, and diverse educational opportunities, the city became known as “The Athens of the South”. To honor such a stellar reputation, city officials decided to build a full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, to be used as a Fine Arts gallery for the exhibition. Nashville residents loved the Parthenon replica so much that it became an enduring fixture in the city. Construction began in 1920 to create a permanent temple, to stand as a lasting homage to the culture of Nashville. Today, the Parthenon continues to be a fitting tribute to an iconic city that courts artistry, innovation and growth. Renowned for its musical heritage, educational institutions, fantastic museums, of which the Parthenon itself is, amazing eateries, sporting events, concerts and street festivals, Nashville continues its legacy as “The Athens of the South”.
Inspiring and unexpected, the Parthenon evokes feelings of awe and reverence. Travelers coming to visit Nashville might expect scenes of Music City grandeur, or perhaps visitors want to experience the melting pot of intertwining cultures that is the beating heart of Nashville’s allure. Seeing the rare wonder of a bona fide temple gracing the landscape might not be on the radar of some visiting Nashville, but what a glorious surprise it is to encounter the Parthenon. This astounding replica, meticulously built to the specs of the Grecian original, only adds to the mystique that encompasses the city. And as impressive as the temple itself is, the real showstopper sits at the very center of this extraordinary building. The statue of Athena Parthenos.
The Athena Statue
Poised in the center hall of the Parthenon, Athena stands in all of her colossal beauty, a staggering 42-foot statue of the ancient Greek goddess. She towers in grandeur, sheathed in battle armor laden in gold. Her shield and breastplate are adorned with the head of the Gorgon, Medusa, ready to turn her enemies into stone during battle. In her hand she holds Nike, the goddess of victory, symbolizing Athena’s supernatural prowess as a skilled warrior and goddess of military strategy. Coiled by her side is a serpent, symbolizing the people of Athens, guarded by her shield and spear.
The statue of Athena was commissioned in 1982, with sculptor Alan LeQuire chosen to re-create the legendary colossus for the Tennessee Parthenon. She wouldn’t be complete until May of 1990. Originally, the statue was a solid white structure. It wouldn’t be until over a decade later that the process of gilding Athena in gold would begin. The gilding process began with the intention of making the statue look more like the Athenian original that resided in the ancient Greek Parthenon.
These days, when everything is in such upheaval and times are changing faster than we can keep up, it’s empowering to know that such a wonder-inducing display of raw female power actually exists in the American South. Fierce and battle-ready in the face of the storm, Athena reigns supreme, unwavering. Ready to fight and protect in the face of all enemies, knowing victory will be hers.
The Parthenon not only houses the awe-inspiring statue, but features a full-scale art museum, as well. Some exhibits that are currently on display include The Antikythera Mechanism exhibit, running until November 28. This educational display takes an in-depth look at one of the most fascinating artifacts of the ancient world, the famous Antikythera Mechanism. Upcoming exhibits will include Kindred Links by Omari Booker and Henry L. Jones, starting October 29, 2021. This collaborative exhibit will focus on the historical legacy and cultural impact of the changing North Nashville community. For those looking for a unique experience, that will leave you feeling empowered and inspired, a visit to the Parthenon will do just that. It will inspire you. For more information about ticket prices and current hours, visit http://nashvilleparthenon.com.
