The grand design is supported by cream, Doric columns, while the exquisite pediments and metopes are decorated with eye-catching carvings.

I became a fan of Greek mythology more than 10 years ago after watching a South Korean cartoon on the subject. I still remember one episode in which hero Perseus beheads Medusa, a monster with living venomous snakes in place of hair, with help from Athena.

Those who gazed upon the face of Medusa were turned to stone, and I remember being impressed by the bravery of Perseus.

There is a bronze statue that reminded me of Perseus at Athens’ National Archaeological Museum. When I saw it during my visit, it gave me a marvelous feeling — like an old memory returning.