Visitors have not been allowed inside the Parthenon since the late 1970s, when the Greek government began a multimillion dollar restoration effort still going on today.
For Sunrise photographer, Peter Yalanis, off limits meant pushing the limits.
Two years of tenacious back and forth with the Greek government yielded spectacular results for Yalanis, a first-generation Greek American. Perched high above the Acropolis of Athens, on scaffolds hanging 60 feet above the ground, Yalanis captured photos from all angles during a life-changing 6 days in 2007.
His collection, "All Sides of the Parthenon" has many different layers. He says he wants to create awareness through his photography and present "all sides" from a physical and political standpoint.
Yalanis gained unprecedented access to the temple as a member of the American Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures, a non-proft based in Washington D.C. The group is part of an international movement trying to return to the Parthenon marble statues removed by British Diplomat Lord Elgin In the 19th century. The so-called Elgin Marbles, from the frieze that runs around the upper edge of the temple wall, remain on display at London's British Museum.
Through his work, Yalanis aims to create awareness for the Elgin Marbles campaign, and ensure south Florida really sees all sides of the Parthenon.
The 42 photographs are on display at the Coral Springs Museum of Art until August 21, 2010.