Erechtheion

The Erechtheion is an ancient Greek temple on the north side of the Acropolis of Athens, constructed in the late 5th century BCE and dedicated to Athena and the mythical king Erechtheus.

The temple is best known for the Porch of the Caryatids, a colonnade supported by six sculpted female figures, and for its irregular multi-level plan that accommodates several cult spaces. Visitors to the Acropolis complex view the exterior and learn about its architectural and religious functions; the original Caryatids are conserved in the Acropolis Museum.

Erected during the Periclean building program after the Persian Wars, the Erechtheion replaced earlier cult buildings and served multiple religious rites tied to Athenian myth and civic identity. Over centuries it has undergone damage, restoration and conservation; significant excavations and protective measures in the 19th to 21st centuries have focused on preserving its sculptures and structure.

Sited on the northern slope of the Acropolis plateau in central Athens, the Erechtheion sits immediately north of the Parthenon within the Acropolis archaeological ensemble.

• Date and dedication: Built in the late 5th century BCE during the classical period of Athens, the temple is dedicated to Athena and Erechtheus and is notable for its unusual asymmetrical plan.
• Caryatid originals: Five of the original Caryatid sculptures are conserved in the Acropolis Museum in Athens, while one original is in the British Museum; replicas stand on the temple exterior.

What to See #

• Porch of the Caryatids: The Porch of the Caryatids on the south side features six sculpted female figures serving as supporting columns; originals have been moved indoors for conservation.
• Main structure and cellae: The building comprises multiple cellae and porches arranged on an irregular plan to accommodate preexisting cult sites and topography on the Acropolis north slope.