Why Was The Parthenon Built?

Greek temple Parthenon (“The maiden temple”) was built on the highest part of the Acropolis at Athens, 447 – 438 BC. At the time it represented central part of Pericles’ draft for the Acropolis.

Its main purpose was to honor the goddess Athena, Greek goddess of wisdom, war, justice and craftsmanshift. The large statue of her stood in the centre of the temple. Statue was made of gold and ivory and sculptor was Pheidias.

Interesting is that people couldn’t enter the temple, they could only see interior of the temple from outside.

After a time the temple was converted first to a Christian church and then an Ottoman mosque.

When Does Chinese New Year Begin?

Legend says that the Chinese calendar was used for the first time by emperor Huang Di in 2637 BC. The calendar is lunisolar, based on astronomical observations.

Chinese date calculation determines Chinese New Year as the day of the second New Moon (rarely the third) after the winter solstice. In the Gregorian calendar that means Chinese New Year falls on different date every year in the period of January 21. – February 20.

For example here are dates of Chinese New Year 2009-2012

What Is The National Flower Of Ireland?

Everyone knows that the shamrock, a tree-leafed plant, is recognized as national flower of Ireland. Despite the fact that the shamrock is not official symbol, it is powerful and universal symbol for people of Ireland.

There are few interesting and old myths behind the symbol. It is believed that ancient druids were honored this plant as a sacred. Irish Celts did also, due to their belief that “3” is sacred number.

The most known legend about Irish shamrock symbol is the one which includes St. Patrick. The legend tells that St. Patrick used to explain the Holy Trinity with this plant. Tree-leafed plant represented tree elements of one God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Therefore there is a custom where people wear the shamrock on St. Patrick’s Day.

Top Ten Christmas Gifts

There is a saying claims that giving presents to someone you love brings you more joy then to receiving them.

So here are some suggestions:

1. Digital Camera
2. Silver jewelry
3. Home Planetariums for Kids
4. Massaging Foot Spas
5. Planet Earth DVDs & Books
6. Aromatherapy Pillows and blankets
7. Cotton pajamas
8. Watch
9. iPhone
10. Chocolate basket

How long did it take to build the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower is an impressive work of architecture that is the pride of the people of France. It is a structure that is easily recognized all over the world and is one of the most popular sites to be visited every year. Built in 1889 after having commenced in 1887, it stands at a remarkable height of over 1000 ft. The tower is thrown open to visitors who can access it on three separate levels. Restaurants to refresh the visitors are also found on the tower. The beauty of the tower is further enhanced at night time when it is all lit up.

Four architects worked on this project. Built of metal, the Eiffel Tower when thrown open to the public was seen as ugly and there was wide spread criticism in Paris. Today its beauty and structural elegance is widely acclaimed. The structure has been appreciated by many a great figure, be it a scientist or a political figure. It took the tower nearly 2 years to be completed and it has stood tall through the World war where it was used for communicating. Even today there is radio and T.V. transmission from the tower. Not only this, the Eiffel tower has been immortalized in many songs and movies and makes the city more romantic.