The Parthenon, standing majestically on the Acropolis of Athens, is not just a symbol of classical architecture but a masterpiece of optical refinement. Its builders employed subtle design techniques to counteract visual distortions and create an impression of perfect harmony. For instance, the columns are not straight; they bulge slightly in the middle to appear straight from a distance, a technique known as entasis. The stylobate, or base, curves upward at the center, preventing it from seeming to sag. Even the columns themselves tilt inward, enhancing the structure’s sense of stability and grandeur. These deliberate deviations from strict geometry demonstrate the ancient Greeks’ profound understanding of perception and their relentless pursuit of aesthetic perfection. The Parthenon remains a timeless testament to human ingenuity in blending art, mathematics, and architecture.