Athens of the South - the Nashville Parthenon

Initially built in 1897, the full-scale Parthenon stands proudly in the heart of Centennial Park, Nashville’s top city park just west of downtown. The parthenon boasts a re-creation of the 42ft statue of Athena, and an underground gallery that serves as National's premier art museum.

Athena is the centerpiece of the Parthenon and is the highest indoor sculpture in the Western world. These full-scale replicas of the Athenian originals are a monument to what is considered the pinnacle of classical architecture.

The underground room galleries form a top-notch art museum featuring 63 paintings by 19th and 20th century American artists, donated by James M. Cowan. There is additional gallery space that hosts a variety of temporary shows and exhibits.

Check the events schedule as you plan your trip.

During the summer local theatre productions use the building as a backdrop for classic Greek plays such as Euripides’ Medea and Sophocles' Antigone, performing (usually for free) on the steps of the Parthenon. Other performances, such as Mary Zimmerman's Metamorphoses, have been done inside, at the foot of Athena's statue. 

Admission: Adults $6, Children 4-17 $4, Seniors $4

Hours: Tues - Sat, 9am-4:30pm. In June, July & August, additional Sunday hours 12:30pm-4:30pm 

Address: 250 25th Avenue N #304

Tel: 615/ 862.8631

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