Dusty Buildings

The Parthenon, built in the 5th century BC, is arguably the defining symbol of Western architecture and culture.

Built originally for the Greek pagan goddess Athena, it became a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary a thousand years after its construction. The name Parthenon means “maiden” or “Virgin” and the Church was thus a Church for the Parthénos Maria.

And a thousand years after this, it was conquered and converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Turks. Today, now badly damaged in the Ottoman period, it is a Greek cultural heritage site and one of the most visited places on earth.

Dusty Buildings

The Pantheon (Rome, Italy), also called the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs, was originally constructed during the reign of Augustus Caesar.

It is one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings, in large part because it has been in continuous use throughout its history.