The Frankish Tower of the Acropolis: A Symbol of Power and Change
In the rich history of Athens, what special space holds more diverse stories than the Acropolis, home to the legendary Frankish tower. This tower, built by the Franks after the Crusades, is a witness to the constant changes in sovereignty and usage that the area has undergone.
Construction and Function
The tower is built on the pillars of the south wing of the Propylae, an important entry point to the Acropolis. After the Franks conquered Athens, they used this tower as a strategic fortress. When Athens passed to the Turks, the tower was converted into a salt warehouse and later a place of detention and torture.
Demolition and Reasons
In 1874, in an attempt to restore the Acropolis to its classical state, the Frankish tower was demolished. This was part of a general removal strategy of post-classical structures on top of the Acropolis, aimed at recreating and preserving the space according to its original architecture and cultural significance.
Cultural heritage
The process of demolishing the tower was not only a symbol of a return to the past but also an attempt to erase the marks of conquest and reuse that the Acropolis had endured. It emphasizes the importance of protecting and restoring cultural heritage, whether from ancient times or more recently.
Modern Vision
Today, the tower no longer exists, but its story remains an integral part of Athens' historical identity. Visitors to the Acropolis can notice its absence through the remaining fragments and historical photos, a mark of a bygone era that still lingers in historical memory.
