A full-sized replica of one of Classical Greece’s most treasured buildings is an unlikely Nashville landmark, but surprisingly, it works. The Parthenon is the centerpiece of Nashville’s Centennial Park, and houses an art museum and a 42-foot (13-meter) high statue of the Greek goddess Athena. Long before Nashville was dubbed "Music City" it was known as the "Athens of the South." This nickname took physical form during Tennessee's 1897 Centennial Exposition, which featured many recreations of ancient buildings. The Greek Parthenon was the centerpiece, and the only exact reproduction built to scale. Replicas of the Parthenon Marbles are direct casts taken from the British Museum and the Acropolis Museum in Athens. Those buildings for the exposition were erected as temporary structures. The Parthenon, however, proved so popular with locals and visitors that it was saved from demolition. Originally constructed from timber, plaster and brick, The Parthenon was entirely rebuilt in the 1920s and ’30s from concrete. The Parthenon now serves as Nashville's art museum. Step through the enormous Doric columns and gaze up at the statue of Athena, one of the largest indoor sculptures in the Western world. Then explore the collection of 63 paintings from 19th- and 20th-century American artists.In summertime the building serves as a spectacular backdrop for theater productions, so be sure to check the local press for performance times. The Parthenon is a highlight of the Nashville Nights and Lights Tour, during which you may be lucky enough to catch the surreal sight of a toga party in full swing. While you’re at The Parthenon, take advantage of Centennial Park’s many attractions. Bring some bread to feed the ducks at the nearby lake, explore the gardens, and admire the decommissioned saber jet airplane and locomotive. It's not uncommon to find a market or fair set up on the lawns as well.The Parthenon is open Tuesdays to Saturdays and takes about two hours to properly explore. Centennial Park is approximately two miles (three kilometers) west of downtown Nashville. City buses stop nearby and parking is free.
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Reviewed on Apr 21, 2024
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Reviews of The Parthenon
4/5 - Good
Open but under construction.
4/5 - Good
Currently under construction but nice to walk the park around it
2/5 - Disappointing
Closed for construction
5/5 - Excellent
Quick short visit but very interesting. Takes about an hour out of your day.
3/5 - Okay
Lots of construction around the Parthenon.
5/5 - Excellent
Worth visiting
Popular places to visit
Centennial Park
Spend a day at one of Nashville’s most beloved green spaces, which features a walking trail, an ornamental garden, art exhibits and concerts.
Vanderbilt University
Take a campus tour or just explore the area around Vanderbilt University, a top university in Nashville. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.
Athena Statue
You can find out about the history of Nashville with a stop at Athena Statue. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.
TriStar Centennial Parthenon Pavilion
Though TriStar Centennial Parthenon Pavilion might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Nashville while you are here.
Centennial Heart Nashville
Though Centennial Heart Nashville might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Nashville while you are here.
Centennial Medical Center
Though Centennial Medical Center might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Nashville while you are here.
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