The Theseion, or Temple of Theseus, Athens

On a hill to the northwest of the Acropolis is the best preserved edifice not of Athens only, but of the whole of ancient Greece. After braving the storms of more than 2000 years it is still a most imposing structure. It is of smaller proportion than the Parthenon, being only 104 by 45 feet, and not nearly so profusely ornamented; but it is a noble specimen of the Attic Doric peripteral style. The Pentelic marble of which it was constructed is now of a golden yellow hue. Like the Parthenon, it stands upon a marble stylobate or platform of two steps; and, like the Parthenon, its lines are slightly curved. A Doric frieze of triglyphs and metopes encircles the whole building. The statues in the pediments are entirely lost. The reliefs in the metopes of the east front represent the labors of Herakles; those in the side walls the achievements of Theseus.

The Temple of Theseus owes its origin to the solemn transference of the bones of the Attic King and Hero, Theseus, from Skyros to Athens, eight hundred years after his death. Its erection was undertaken by Kimon, son of Miltiades, about 465 B. C. According to Herodotus, there were only four Kings of Athens before Theseus, son of AEgus, was regarded as the real founder of the city of Athens by giving its laws, arranging its festivals, and by erecting its first public buildings.

It is almost impossible to separate myths and legends from history; but Theseus lived in the time of Herakles, and, like that great hero, was deified for the good he had accomplished for his fellow men. "And even in the days of feasting, the minstrels hushed at the names of Herakles and Theseus."

During the Middle Ages the Theseion was converted into a Christian Church and dedicated to St. George, a not inappropriate successor of the great Attic hero.

Dodwell says: "This elegant building probably furnished the model for the Parthenon, which resembles it in its essential features, though it is of nearly double the size." Stuart says: "One of the noblest remains of ancient magnificence, and at present the most entire." All evidence concurs to establish the claim of this beautiful temple, erected to the honor of Theseus as an expiation of the ingratitude with which the Athenians rewarded his eminent services and his heroic deeds. All military assemblies were held here; and as a sanctuary of protection, those who fled from the pursuit of the law found refuge here. Its erection dates thirty years earlier than the Parthenon.