During the Age of Pericles, the arts, literature, and other creative endeavors blossomed into greatness. In this article, we will take a look at some of the achievements that the ancient Greeks made when it came to sculpture, literary works, ceramics, theater, and other pursuits.
Ancient Greek Architecture and Sculptures
Sculpture and architecture was also great during the Age of Pericles, as the construction of buildings seemed to outshine the decorative techniques used during this time period. More emphasis was placed on the quantity of works rather than the quality. At the time, the people reconstructed:
* The Temple of Olympian Zeus: Located in the center of Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is now a huge ruined structure that was dedicated to Zeus, king of the Greek gods. The building of this site started in the 6th century BC, during the time when Athenian tyrants ruled the land.
It was the hope of the ancient Greeks to create a building that would become the greatest temple that the ancient world would ever see. However, it was not finished until the Roman Emperor Hadrian was in power (during the 2nd century AD), which was about 650 years after the project initially begun. One of its highlights was hosting one of the largest cult statues from the ancient world.
* The Temple of Apollo in Delphi: An earthquake destroyed this structure.
* The Acropolis of Athens: Dedicated to the glory of the gods, this marble city was devastated by a fire attributed to the Persians. It lay in ruins for more than 30 years until Pericles rallied the people to reconstruct the site using white marble hailing from a quarry located in nearby Pentelicon. In order to finish the grand Acropolis, the best of the best in the world of architects, sculptors and workers were called upon. After the Acropolis was complete, it was known as one of the most fanciest and ideal monuments associated with Greek art.
When it comes to sculpting, Phidias made quite a name for himself during the ancient Greek days of Pericles, becoming known as one of the greatest sculptors of his time. Just some of the pieces he is responsible for creating includes massive marble statues that were plated with gold (referred to as “chryselephantine statues”). He had a knack for paying attention to the details of the face and hands. Two pieces that stick out in history are the Athena (found inside the Parthenon) and Zeus, who was situated in the Sanctuary of Olympia. It was the statue of Zeus that later earned the recognition as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
3 Facts About Phidias
1) Despite no original works surviving, the Romans created many copies of Phidias’ pieces.
2) Some of the earliest of the works of Phidias centered on dedications in memory of Marathon, which paid homage to the victorious Greeks.
3) Phidias lived from around 480 BC to 430 BC, and also painted and designed architectural wonders in addition to his lovely sculptures.