1. The Erechtheion
B.C.E.

2. The Construction Designed by Philokes
Constructed during B.C.E.
Located on the Acropolis in Athens
Considered an Ionic masterpiece
Erechtheion Site Plan

3. Site Significance The Erechtheion temple sits on a mythical site
According to the Legend, a contest between Athena and Poseidon was held
to claim Athens in which Poseidon caused salt water to spring at the site. Athena won
the contest by making an olive tree to sprout
The olive tree still stands!
Statue of Poseidon
Statute of Athena

4. Erechtheion Highlights
Built on a sloping site and accommodates to it
Separate porticos with different sized columns
The Porch of the Maidens
Erechtheion Elevation View

5. The Porch of the Maidens
Located on the southern portion of the Erechtheion
Statues of women are used instead of the typical Ionic column
Columns are referred to as “caryatids” after beautiful, captive women of Caria
Carya, a city of Peloponnese, joined the Persians in their war against the Greeks. These in return for the treachery, after having freed themselves by a most glorious victory from the intended Persian yoke, [Greece] unanimously resolved to levy war against the Caryans. Carya was, in consequence, taken and destroyed, its male population extinguished, and its matrons carried into slavery. That these circumstances might be better remembered, and the nature of the triumph perpetuated, the victors portrayed these women as draped, and apparently suffering under the burden with which they were loaded, to expiate the crime of their native city.
Cast mold caryatids stand in place of the
originals
Original caryatids in a Greek Museum
Stolen caryatid in the British Museum

6. Final Reflections…
Any Questions???

7. ~FIN~