Art is an integral part of the culture and history of Athens, remaining one of the city's defining characteristics even today. The city is home to a wide variety of works of art, from sculptures and monuments to paintings and mosaics, many of which date back to the Classical period. An iconic example of ancient Athenian art is the Acropolis, with the Parthenon, the Propylaea and some other structures, They are being of the most famous ancient monuments worldwide. The Parthenon is a masterpiece of sculpture and architecture, with its intricate marble columns and statues of the gods of Greek mythology. Athens hosts important cultural sites, such as the National Archaeological Museum, the Benaki Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art. They are dedicated to the preservation and display of top Athenian works of art, some of which date from the Classical and Hellenistic periods. Athens is also home to contemporary art, with many galleries, museums and educational institutions catering for all tastes. The Athens Biennale and the Onassis Cultural Center are outstanding examples of contemporary art that host modern art.