Akrópolis-1 Entrance or Propylaia

The monumental gateway to the Acropolis, the Propylaea was built under the general direction of the Athenian leader Pericles,. Construction began in 437 BCE and was terminated in 432. Entrance into the Acropolis was controlled by the Propylaea. Though it was not built as a fortified structure, it was important that people not ritually clean be denied access to the sanctuary. In addition, runaway slaves and other outlaws could not be permitted into the sanctuary where they could claim the protection of the gods. The state treasury was also kept on the Acropolis, making its security important.