Athens Temple of Athena Nike Apteros
Ancient Greek Mythology, Religion, Art
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When visiting the Acropolis one of the first things people encounter is the Temple of Nike, also known as the Temple of Nike Apteros or Athena Nike. This relatively small temple was constructed in dedication of Athena as the provider of victory (Greek: nike) to Athens over its enemies.
It is believed that the temple was constructed around 420 BCE on the site of a much earlier shrine to Athena. Dating back to at least the 6th century BCE, this shrine is still accessible under the current Temple of Nike (via a trap door) and was at one time used by the Turks to store gunpowder.
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