Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athens.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a former colossal Corinthian temple at the foot of the Acropolis in the centre of Athens. Construction began in the 6th century BC during the rule of the Athenian tyrants, but was not completed until the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, taking a total of 638 years to complete. The temple was reduced to ruins just a century after its completion after being pillaged during a barbarian invasion in 267 AD. However, a substantial part of the temple remains despite centuries of extensive quarrying for building materials after the fall of the Roman Empire.

Pictured here are only 15 of the original 104 columns still standing, with a sixteenth column lying on the ground where it fell during a storm in 1852. The Acropolis is visible behind. Chairs and benches have been laid out around the base of the temple for people to rest. The site remains virtually unchanged today.

Large albumen print. Good tonal range and in good condition; Dimensions: 270 x 370mm. (10.5 x 14.5 inches).