The hometown of country music is also home to one of the highlight’s of Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, The Parthenon. Inspired by Athen’s original temple, the structure also houses a 42-foot Athena statue. This impressive venue in Nashville is also home to the Candlelight series—concerts bathed in the glow of candles featuring takes on some of the greatest music of all time.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about The Parthenon
1. Recreating the Athena statue
This gargantuan piece takes pride of place at Nashville’s Parthenon. Recreated by Alan LeQuire and master gilder Lou Reed, the city’s Athena statue was built between 1982 and 1990. What started as two small-scale versions of the statue made out of clay turned into multiple moulds made using gypsum cement being put together inside The Parthenon. After four months of gilding, and later painting the statue, the Athena statue was finished.
2. Art Collections
There are several collections on display permanently at The Parthenon. This art museum in Nashville is home to 63 paintings by 19th and 20th century American artists donated by James M. Cowan. There are also temporary exhibits on display throughout the year.
3. The marble casts at The Parthenon
The Parthenon’s permanent collection also includes 14 casts of the original Parthenon Marbles. These pieces were bought from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London in the 1920s. Thanks to support from the Hays Foundation, the casts are receiving proper maintenance and restoration works.
Candlelight concerts at The Parthenon
Nothing compares to the way candlelight hits against the stunning architecture inside The Parthenon. Couple this warm light with the sound of soothing melodies, and you’ve got a completely one-of-a-kind experience in Nashville. From tributes to Pink Floyd to holiday specials, these Candlelight concerts are mesmerizing events.
What else can you do at The Parthenon?
Without leaving Tennessee, visitors can experience Greece’s rich history and discover remarkable works of art. You can take architecture audio tours, attend the Art Cart program, go on a Centennial Park history tour, and look out for free talks and lectures on art or ancient civilizations scheduled during the year. Keep an eye on The Parthenon’s official website to see upcoming events.
While admission for children under the age of 4 is free, other tickets (age dependant) cost between $8 and $10 dollars.
Not only is the Candlelight series known for its signature sea of candles and talented musicians, but it is also known for its spectacular venues, including The Parthenon in Nashville. Combining striking architecture and the glow of candlelight, these intimate performances make for a magical evening out.