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Erechtheion: A Temple of Myth and Architectural Innovation

Discover the Erechtheion, an iconic temple on the Acropolis of Athens, famed for its unique architecture, sacred history, and the Porch of the Caryatids.

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The Erechtheion, an ancient Greek Ionic temple on the Acropolis in Athens, is a unique and sacred structure dedicated primarily to Athena Polias and Poseidon-Erechtheus. Constructed between 421 and 406 BC, it stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural prowess of classical Greece, distinguished by its asymmetrical design and the iconic Porch of the Caryatids.

A brief summary to Erechtheion

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the site in the best light.
  • Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip, as the marble surfaces can be slippery.
  • Purchase your Acropolis ticket online in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Visit the Acropolis Museum to see the original Caryatids and other artifacts from the Acropolis site.
  • Check the official Acropolis website for updated opening hours and any closures before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Acropolis entrance, follow the main path towards the Parthenon. The Erechtheion is located on the north side of the Acropolis, a short walk from the Parthenon. The path is well-marked, and the temple is easily visible. Note that the ground can be uneven and slippery in places.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Athens Metro Line 2 (Red Line) to the Acropoli station. From the station, it's a short uphill walk to the Acropolis entrance. Follow the signs to the Acropolis and then walk towards the Erechtheion, located on the north side of the Acropolis. A single metro ticket costs €1.20.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in central Athens, a taxi to the Acropolis entrance will typically cost between €4 and €6, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. From the taxi drop-off point, walk uphill to the Acropolis entrance and then follow the path to the Erechtheion.

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Discover more about Erechtheion

The Erechtheion, located on the north side of the Acropolis, is an ancient Greek temple renowned for its unique design and sacred significance. Unlike typical symmetrical temples, the Erechtheion's asymmetrical composition reflects the complex religious beliefs of ancient Greece and the site's uneven terrain. It was built to replace the Old Temple of Athena Polias, which was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC. The temple is dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon, as well as Erechtheus, a legendary king of Athens. According to myth, the Erechtheion marks the spot where Athena and Poseidon competed for the city's patronage. Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, creating a saltwater spring, while Athena produced an olive tree, which the Athenians chose as the better gift. The olive tree is said to be planted in the same spot where Athena presented her gift to the Athenians. The Erechtheion's most iconic feature is the Porch of the Caryatids, located on the southern side of the temple. These six graceful female statues serve as supporting pillars, showcasing the skill and creativity of ancient Greek sculptors. The Caryatids are replicas; five of the originals are housed in the Acropolis Museum, while the sixth is in the British Museum. The temple also features an Ionic frieze adorned with carved figures of gods and mortals. The figures were created from white Parian marble and attached with metal fasteners to slabs of gray Eleusinian limestone. The Erechtheion's architecture stands in contrast to the Doric style of the Parthenon, boasting an intricate Ionic design. The temple's walls were constructed in ashlar isodomic masonry, using Pentelic marble with black limestone friezes. The unique layout of the Erechtheion is attributed to the significant difference in elevation between its eastern and western parts.

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