The Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee, is a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens. It was built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, which celebrated the centennial of this state's union with the United States. This historical context adds a layer of significance to the monument, making it not just a replica, but a symbol of Tennessee's history and its connection to ancient Greece.
The Parthenon serves as a tribute to the original monument, considered the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture. The reconstruction of the statue of Athena Parthenos, created in 1990 by Alan LeQuire, is the centerpiece of the Nashville Parthenon, imitating the one that should have been in the original Parthenon of ancient Greece. This statue, standing at a height of about 13 meters and covered in gold, is a sight to behold for any visitor.
Today, the Parthenon remains as the centerpiece of Centennial Park, a large public park located west of downtown, and is used as a museum housing four art galleries. This art museum has 63 paintings by 19th and 20th century American artists as a permanent collection, donated by James M. Cowan. This makes the Parthenon not just a historical monument, but also a hub for art and culture.
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23 Jan 2025 – 1 Mar 2025
2 Oct 2024 – 30 Oct 2024
4 Sept 2024 – 25 Sept 2024
3 Jul 2024 – 31 Jul 2024
5 Jun 2024 – 26 Jun 2024
1 May 2024 – 29 May 2024
The Parthenon has 1 rating.
The Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. This impressive structure, located in Centennial Park, serves as both an art museum and a monument to classical architecture.
Visitors consistently praise the exterior of the building, noting its grand scale and attention to detail. The meticulous recreation of ancient Greek architecture is often described as awe-inspiring, especially when illuminated at night.
Inside, the centerpiece is the 42-foot-tall statue of Athena, which many find impressive and worth seeing. The museum houses a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, which receives mixed reviews. Some visitors find the art collection interesting, while others feel it's limited compared to larger art museums.
The historical exhibits about the Parthenon's construction and Nashville's history are generally well-received, providing context and educational value. However, some visitors mention that more interactive or multimedia elements could enhance the experience.
Many reviewers appreciate the peaceful surroundings of Centennial Park, which adds to the overall visit. The museum's staff are often commended for their knowledge and friendliness.
On the downside, some visitors find the entrance fee a bit high for the size of the museum. Others mention that the interior can feel dated and could benefit from renovations or updates to the exhibit spaces.
Accessibility is generally good, but a few reviewers note that navigating the steps can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Overall, The Parthenon is widely regarded as a unique attraction in Nashville, offering a blend of art, history, and architecture. While it may not rival the depth of larger museums, its distinctive nature and the opportunity to see a full-scale classical replica make it a noteworthy stop for many visitors to the city.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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