Acropolis of Athens, Erechtheion, Porch of the Caryatids

Athens, Attica, Greece

Ακρόπολη Αθηνών (Akrópolē Athēnṓn ) [Greek]

ἡ Ἀκρόπολις τῶν Ἀθηνῶν (hē Akrópolis tō̂n Athēnō̂n) [Ancient Greek]

Ερέχθειο (Eréchtheio) [Greek]

Ἐρέχθειον (Eréchtheion) [Ancient Greek]

Καρυάτιδες (Karyátides) [Ancient Greek]

Πρόστασις των Κορών (Próstasis ton Korón) [Greek]

Acropolis, Erechtheion, Porch of the Caryatids

Architecture

The Erechtheion is a temple of Ionic style dedicated to the gods Athena and Poseidon. The temple is best known for the Porch of the Caryatids, featuring six sculpted female figures as columns. The temple's unique asymmetrical composition deviates from the prevailing canon of Greek classical architecture, distinguishing it from other temples.

structure overview

Acropolis of Athens » Erechtheion

architectural element(s)

porch, caryatid

Architecture: Erechtheion

full/alternative names

Erechtheum

built

419-404 BCE

culture

Ancient Greek

style/period

Ionic

work type

Greek temple, Greek Orthodox church, palace, official residence

form/concept

anastylosis

material

Pentelic marble

architect

Mnesikles

artist

Phidias

patronage

Pericles

Architecture: Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel perched on a 150-meter-high flat-topped rock. The today's remaining buildings which were constructed in the 5th century BCE reflect the artistic and architectural achievements of the Golden Age of Athens and are a symbol of ancient Greek civilization in general.

built

2nd half of 5th century BCE

culture

Ancient Greek

style/period

Ancient Greek

work type

building complex

form/concept

anastylosis

material

Pentelic marble