14/45.- Athens, Parthenon, East Side

The Parthenon survived largely intact until the 17th century. But, unfortunately, the Ottomans used it to store munitions and in 1687, it was struck by a Venetian shell. The explosion destroyed much of the structure.

In the 19th century, much of the decorative friezes were removed and taken to London, where they are on display to this day in the British Museum. The Greeks have argued for years for the Parthenon friezes to be returned to Greece, but so far to no avail.

Given its antiquity, and rough history, it is perhaps not surprising that the Parthenon seems to be under constant restoration work as can be seen by all the scaffolding.

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