The Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, is considered the epitome of classical Greek architecture. Built during the classical period, which spanned from the early 470s to the mid-fourth century BC, the football field-sized building employs very realistic and detailed statues, reliefs, and friezes of various themes, such as military processions, athletic contests, and religious stories.

The classical period of Greece, though brief, gave rise to amazing developments in many different areas. Art and architecture became geared toward more real depictions, rather than ideal ones, but still concentrated on beauty, grace and proportion, as they did before. Drama and music were also important; the classical period was home to such names as Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes, who are still familiar to us over 2000 years later. Many plays were written as parts of contests and performed in outdoor amphitheaters, some of which still survive today.

Philosophy and the sciences also flourished. Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle were all philosophers and scientists active at this time and their thoughts still have a tremendous impact on us today. The classical period is also noted as a time when democracy flourished. Although it didnt last long, Athenian democracy is often noted as the first real democratic system. Obviously, the contribution of classical Greeces culture to modern life is notable.