Parthenon Bombarded During Venetian Siege
September 26th, 1687
September 26th, 1687

How Long Ago?
337 years, 5 months, 17 days ago
Location
Athens, Greece
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Morean War
Links & References
Tags
Parthenon Bombarded During Venetian Siege
The Parthenon in Athens was partially destroyed when Venetian forces bombarded the Acropolis during the Morean War. The building had been repurposed as a gunpowder depot by the Ottoman garrison, which led to its severe damage when munitions ignited. This incident marked a significant event in the conflict, highlighting the strategic importance of the location and the vulnerabilities of historic structures during warfare.
Parthenon used as a gunpowder depot by Ottomans.
Venetian forces aimed to capture strategic Athens.
The explosion damaged the iconic ancient structure.
Event influenced future preservation efforts.
What Happened?
During the Morean War, which lasted from 1684 to 1699, the Venetians sought to capture territories held by the Ottoman Empire, including the strategically important city of Athens. On September 26, 1687, Venetian artillery opened fire on the Acropolis, specifically targeting the Parthenon, a temple originally dedicated to the goddess Athena. At the time, the Ottoman garrison had converted the Parthenon into a gunpowder depot, an ill-fated decision that would lead to catastrophic damage. The bombarding forces aimed to weaken Ottoman defensive positions, unaware of the explosive materials stored within the ancient structure. The bombardment eventually ignited the gunpowder, resulting in an explosion that severely damaged the Parthenon, causing the roof to collapse and leaving the iconic site in ruins.
The siege was part of a broader military strategy by the Venetians, which involved coordinated attacks on several fortified positions throughout the region. The destruction of the Parthenon not only impacted the physical landscape of Athens but also symbolized the intense conflict between the two empires. The event exemplified the destructive capabilities of 17th-century warfare and raised awareness of the fragility of historical monuments in wartime. The Parthenon had previously been celebrated as a masterpiece of classical architecture, and its transformation into a war target underscores the tragic intersection of culture and conflict.
In the aftermath, the damage to the Parthenon became emblematic of the broader decline of the Ottoman Empire's hold on Greece. This event intensified local and European interest in the arts and history of ancient Greece, contributing to the later movements of Neoclassicism and Romanticism in Europe. The traces of war on the Parthenon would influence the conversations around conservation and the protection of historical sites, which remain relevant today.
Why Does it Matter?
The partial destruction of the Parthenon during the bombardment marked not just a significant moment in the Morean War, but it also served as an enduring symbol of the impact of war on cultural heritage. The loss highlighted the vulnerabilities of historical monuments and spurred future generations to consider the preservation of such sites in conflict zones. Its ruins became an important reference point for discussions on archaeology and art conservation that continue today.
Discover More Historic Events from September 26th
Hurricane Helene Strikes Perry, Florida
Hurricane Helene made landfall in Perry, Florida as a category four hurricane, causing catastrophic damage and resulting in over 250 fatalities. This devastating hurricane, noted for its intensity and rapid approach, left the small coastal town in ruins and prompted a massive emergency response. The high casualty count marked Helene as one of the deadliest hurricanes on the mainland United States since Hurricane Katrina. Recovery efforts began almost immediately, with local and federal agencies mobilizing to assist affected populations in the aftermath of the storm.
Continue ReadingSchool Shooting in Izhevsk, Udmurtia
A mass shooting occurred at a school in Izhevsk, Udmurtia, resulting in the deaths of 18 individuals, including 11 children. The shooter, reportedly an ex-student, entered the school armed and began firing at students and staff during the early morning hours. The incident led to a widespread outcry over gun control, mental health support, and public safety in Russia.
Continue ReadingMass Kidnapping in Iguala, Mexico
Forty-three students were forcibly taken by police in Iguala, Mexico, while they were en route to a protest. The students, from Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers' College, aimed to raise awareness about educational rights and social justice. Their disappearance sparked national outrage and calls for accountability. Allegations surfaced linking local authorities to organized crime. This incident highlighted longstanding issues of corruption and violence in Mexico.
Continue ReadingBar Exam Bombing Injures Dozens in Manila
A bombing occurred near the De La Salle University in Taft Avenue, Manila, injuring 47 individuals. The attack was targeted towards the law graduates taking the Philippine Bar examinations, creating chaos and a heavy security response at the scene. Eyewitness accounts described a loud explosion that shook the area, prompting immediate medical assistance to those affected. The motive behind the bombing remains unclear, but it highlighted the potential dangers associated with large gatherings in the city.
Continue ReadingDevastating Typhoon Ketsana Strikes Southeast Asia
Typhoon Ketsana, also referred to as Typhoon Ondoy in the Philippines, made landfall in the region, unleashing torrential rain and causing severe flooding across the Philippines, Vietnam, and neighboring countries. The storm notably affected Manila, leading to one of the worst flooding disasters in Philippine history, displacing thousands and causing extensive damage to infrastructure and homes. The typhoon resulted in severe fatalities, with at least 700 reported across all impacted countries, affecting communities and prompting international humanitarian assistance.
Continue ReadingMV Le Joola Capsizes Off Gambia Coast
The MV Le Joola, a Senegalese ferry, sank while traveling from Ziguinchor, Senegal, to Dakar. Overloaded with passengers and cargo, the vessel capsized near the Gambian coast, resulting in one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history. Witnesses reported turbulent seas and the ferry’s failure to handle the conditions. Tragically, more than 1,000 people lost their lives, with many going missing.
Continue Reading