major architectural features of the Parthenon.
1. Doric columns: The Parthenon is built in the Doric order, a style of classical architecture characterized by its simple, sturdy columns with no base and fluted shafts. The 46 outer columns of the Parthenon create a colonnade around the perimeter of the building.
2. Entablature: The entablature of the Parthenon consists of three main parts - the architrave, frieze, and cornice. The frieze is particularly famous for its marble relief sculptures depicting mythological scenes, such as the Panathenaic procession.
3. Pediments: The Parthenon has two pediments, one at the east and one at the west end of the building. These triangular gables are filled with sculptural decoration, depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The east pediment, for example, shows the birth of Athena from the head of Zeus.
4. Metopes: The metopes are rectangular panels located on the entablature of the Parthenon, between the triglyphs. Originally, these panels were carved with scenes of mythical battles and conflicts, but many of the original sculptures have been lost or damaged over time.
5. Pronaos and Opisthodomos: The Parthenon has a pronaos (porch) at the front and an opisthodomos (rear porch) at the back. These features were common in ancient Greek temples and served as ceremonial spaces for worshippers and offerings.
6. Cella: The central chamber of the Parthenon, known as the cella, housed the cult statue of Athena Parthenos, the patron goddess of Athens. The cella was divided into two chambers, the main nave and the inner chamber, which held the chryselephantine (gold and ivory) statue of Athena.
Overall, the Parthenon is a masterpiece of classical architecture, known for its harmonious proportions, exquisite sculptural decoration, and innovative engineering techniques.