
Classical Athens
Classical Athens, flourishing in the 5th to 4th centuries BCE, was a powerful city-state in ancient Greece known for its cultural, political, and intellectual achievements. It pioneered democracy, allowing citizens to participate directly in decision-making. Athens was a hub for philosophy, arts, and drama, producing renowned thinkers like Socrates and playwrights like Sophocles. The Acropolis, featuring iconic structures like the Parthenon, symbolizes its architectural innovation. This period laid the foundations for Western civilization, influencing modern politics, philosophy, and the arts through its emphasis on civic engagement and inquiry.