Posted by The Erechtheion in Athens, an important building (temple) in the Acropolis. One of the five most important buildings of the Acropolis in Athens, at approximately 22 m × 12 m, it is significantly smaller than the main building of the Acropolis, the Parthenon (approximately 70 m × 31 m). The Erechtheion was the religious center of Athens in ancient times.
The Erechtheion, perched atop the sacred rock of the Acropolis in Athens, is one of the most remarkable and unique temples of ancient Greece. Known for its elegant design and famous caryatid porch, this temple is a must-see for any visitor to Athens. With its rich history, mythological significance, and architectural beauty, the Erechtheion is a testament to the artistic and engineering prowess of the ancient Athenians.
Due to the extreme lines at the Acropolis ticket offices, always purchase tickets online through the ticket provider Getyourguide. There are standard admission tickets, combined tickets for the Acropolis Museum and other attractions in Athens, and tickets with guided tours.
History of the Erechtheion
The Erechtheion was built between 421 and 406 BC during the Golden Age of Athens under Pericles. It was built on the site of an earlier temple destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC. Unlike the Parthenon, which was dedicated exclusively to Athena, the Erechtheion honored several deities and legendary figures. It was named after Erechtheus, a mythical king of Athens who was said to have been buried at this site.
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The temple was primarily dedicated to Athena and Poseidon, commemorating the legendary rivalry between the two gods for supremacy in Athens. According to mythology, Athena sacrificed an olive tree, while Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, creating a saltwater spring. The Athenians chose Athena as their patroness, and her sacred olive tree is said to have stood next to the temple.
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Erechtheion Architecture
The Erechtheion is an exceptional example of Ionic architecture, distinguished by its asymmetrical floor plan, designed to accommodate the uneven terrain of the Acropolis and the numerous sacred sites it housed.
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The famous Caryatid Porch
One of the most iconic features of the Erechtheion is the Caryatid Porch, also known as the Porch of the Virgins. Instead of traditional columns, this section of the temple is supported by six intricately carved female statues called caryatids. These elegant figures, clad in flowing robes, are among the finest examples of ancient Greek sculpture. The originals were moved to the Acropolis Museum for preservation; replicas now stand in their place.
The Main Temple and Other Sections
The temple consists of several chambers, each serving a different religious function:
The eastern chamber was dedicated to Athena and contained a wooden statue of the goddess.
The western part was dedicated to Poseidon-Erechtheus and housed a sacred saltwater fountain, said to have been created by Poseidon’s trident.
The northern vestibule provided access to the temple and featured a large Ionic colonnade.
The design of the Erechtheion is unique due to its irregular shape and multiple levels, which was a necessity given the sacred sites around which it was built. The temple’s elegant Ionic columns, ornate friezes, and fine marble construction contribute to its beauty.
The Erechtheion Today
Despite centuries of destruction, including its conversion into a Christian church and an Ottoman harem, the Erechtheion remains an architectural marvel. Extensive restoration work has helped preserve the structure, allowing visitors to admire its stunning design and historical significance.
Today, the Erechtheion is one of the highlights of the Acropolis, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The caryatid statues, with their graceful poses and lifelike details, continue to fascinate tourists and scholars alike.
How to Visit the Erechtheion
Location: The Erechtheion is located on the Acropolis near the Parthenon.
Acropolis Opening Hours: The Acropolis is open daily, but opening hours vary depending on the season. It is recommended to check official sources before visiting.
Admission Prices and Tickets: Admission is included in the Acropolis Ticket, which also grants access to several historical sites.
Best time to visit: To avoid crowds and experience the site in the best light, arrive early in the morning or late afternoon.
Summary
The Erechtheion is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history, mythology, and architecture. Its unique design, numerous legends, and impressive Porch of the Caryatids make it one of Athens’ most fascinating sights. Whether you explore it independently or with a guided tour, the Erechtheion offers a captivating insight into the splendor of classical Greece.
What was the Erechtheion used for?
The Erechtheion is an ancient temple on the Athenian Acropolis, built between 421 and 406 BC. It was an important sanctuary dedicated to several deities and mythical heroes.
Function of the Erechtheion:
1.Place of Worship for Athena and Poseidon:
The Erechtheion was a sacred place for Athena, the patron goddess of Athens, and Poseidon, the sea god.
It is said to have marked the spot where Poseidon struck a spring with his trident and Athena planted the olive tree – the famous scene of the contest for the rule of Athens.
2.Worship of the Mythical King Erechtheus:
The temple was also a sanctuary for Erechtheus, a legendary king of Athens, after whom the Erechtheion is named.
His tomb is said to have been located beneath the temple.
3.The Pandroseion – Sanctuary of Pandrosus:
In the western part of the Erechtheion, there was an area dedicated to the nymph Pandrosus, daughter of the first king of Athens, Cecrops.
Here stood a sacred olive tree, considered a gift from Athena.
4.Repository of sacred objects:
Various sacred relics were kept in the Erechtheum, presumably including a wooden statue of Athena (the “Xoanon”), which was considered particularly ancient and sacred.
5.Site of religious ceremonies:
Rituals and sacrifices to the worshipped deities were likely performed here.
The famous caryatids (female statues serving as columns) adorned the southern porch and may have played a symbolic role in ceremonies.
The Erechtheum was thus a multifunctional temple with special significance for Athenian faith and the city’s identity. Have you been there yet?
Where is the Erechtheion?
The Erechtheion stands on the Acropolis of Athens, in the northern part of the plateau, near the famous Parthenon. It was built on uneven terrain, which is why it has an asymmetrical architecture. Particularly notable is the Caryatid Porch, whose columns are designed in the form of female statues.
When was the Erechtheion built?
The Erechtheion was built between 421 and 406 BC during the reign of Pericles. Completion was delayed due to the Peloponnesian War. The temple was built to replace older sanctuaries that had been destroyed during the Persian invasion (480 BC).
What is the Erechtheion?
The name Erechtheion is derived from Erechtheus, a mythical king of Athens. In Greek mythology, Erechtheus was considered a divine ruler and was sometimes associated with Poseidon.
The Erechtheion was therefore a sanctuary dedicated, among other things, to this legendary king. It united several cults, including those of Athena, Poseidon, and Erechtheus.
Which tickets are available for the Erechtheion?
The Erechtheion is an important temple on the Acropolis in Athens. To visit the Erechtheion, you will need an Acropolis ticket, as the temple is part of this archaeological complex.
Ticket options:
1.Single Acropolis ticket:
Includes: Access to the Acropolis and its main attractions, including the Parthenon and the Erechtheion.
Bookable at GetYourGuide
2.Includes: Access to the Acropolis and six other archaeological sites, including the Ancient Agora, the Roman Forum, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Bookable at GetYourGuide
Combination ticket for the Acropolis and other archaeological sites:
Online booking: Advance online booking is recommended to avoid queues. You can book tickets through various platforms, such as GetYourGuide.
What are the Erechtheion opening hours?
The Erechtheion is located on the Acropolis of Athens, so its opening hours are linked to those of the entire complex. The following times typically apply:
High season (approximately April to October): approximately 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Low season (approximately November to March): approximately 8:00 a.m. to 5:00–6:00 p.m.