Erechtheion

The Erechtheion is an ancient Greek temple on the Acropolis of Athens, most famous for its Porch of the Caryatids. This architectural feature features six massive statues of maidens (Caryatids) functioning as supporting columns.

The temple was built in the late 5th century BCE, roughly between 421 and 406 BCE. Its irregular design was driven by the need to accommodate multiple existing shrines and the drastically uneven terrain.

Unlike the nearby Parthenon, the Erechtheion was dedicated to multiple deities, primarily Athena and Poseidon. It housed the ancient wooden cult statue of Athena Polias, the protector of the city.

The statues currently standing on the temple are exact replicas; five of the original six Caryatids are securely displayed in the nearby Acropolis Museum. The sixth original was removed in the early 19th century by Lord Elgin and is kept at the British Museum.