How to Draw the Parthenon Temple

1. Begin the Parthenon outline by drawing its basic shapes. Start with a large triangle for the roof, then draw a long, horizontal rectangle below it. Draw a small horizontal rectangle at each end of the larger one.

Extend two straight lines from each small rectangle, and draw another small rectangle at the bottom to form columns. This is referred to as a Doric architectural style.

2. Draw six more columns between the first two. For each, draw parallel lines between two small, horizontal rectangles.

Then, draw three narrow, horizontal rectangles beneath the columns. Each should be a bit longer than the last, forming stairs.

3. Next, make the Parthenon three-dimensional. Extend the lines of the roof at a diagonal angle and connect them at the ends.

Draw six vertical parallel lines, and connect them at the top and bottom with curved lines, forming columns.

4. Extend the lines of the stairs, as well as the tops and bottoms of the column, at a diagonal angle. Use straight, vertical lines to enclose two more columns.

5. Use long, straight lines to detail the stairs and the side of the roof. Divide the column bases and tops with short lines.

Then, indicate the columns on the opposite side of the building. Use straight and curved lines to draw two columns, their tops, and bases between the first and second front columns.

6. Draw a triangle parallel to the first shape you draw. Detail the rectangle below it with a horizontal line and vertical lines.

Draw horizontal lines between the bases and tops of the columns and between the fourth and fifth columns. Draw diagonal lines between the seventh and eighth columns.

Enclose two round shapes on top of the building, and draw a horizontal line across the lower one.

7. Use curved lines to outline two statues, one on each corner of the building. Decorate the uppermost structure with spiral-shaped lines and a sunburst pattern.

Then begin to sketch the carved frieze within the triangular portion of the building. Use curved lines to trace the shape of people. This frieze depicts a religious festival held for Athena.

8. Continue to sketch the frieze, using curved lines to sketch humans and horses. Notice the circle that indicates the chariot's wheel.

9. Finish sketching the frieze. Draw a horizon line in the background. Use curved lines to texture the ground and draw a few clouds in the sky.

Your cartoon Parthenon outline is now complete. It was built out of a creamy beige stone. The statues at its top may have once been painted.