“The Parthenon was designed and constructed in 1897 by William Crawford Smith, a Confederate veteran, and this remarkable structure faithfully captures the essence of its ancient counterpart. During the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, commemorating the state's 100th year of statehood, Nashville capitalized on its moniker "Athens of the South" by constructing the Fine Art Building, a replica of Athens' renowned architectural masterpiece, symbolizing Greek classical architecture at its zenith. While the original fragments reside in London's British Museum, the Parthenon's permanent collection features a curated selection of 63 paintings by American artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. Among its highlights is the magnificent indoor sculpture known as the Parthenos, towering at almost 42 feet and being the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world. In addition to its permanent collection, the Parthenon is a versatile venue for hosting various temporary shows and exhibitions, enriching its vibrant cultural offerings. Furthermore, the Parthenon offers free admission to babies and children under four, ensuring accessibility for families.”
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