The Erechtheion is an Acropolis building just beside the Parthenon. It had many functions — its eastern part was dedicated to Athena, while the western was dedicated to heroes and other gods. It was also sacred for the cult of Poseidon. It is believed that the building hosted both marks of Poseidon's trident and Athena's sacred olive tree, which she gave to the city of Athens as a gift. While the original tree is gone, a similar one was planted at the site, as you can see in the photographs below!
One of the most distinctive features of the Erechtheion are the six Caryatids — maiden sculptures that double as columns. They are dressed in light, draped clothes, and have braided hair. But beware — the Caryatids now standing at the Erechtheion are not the original ones. Five of the originals are at the Acropolis Museum, where they can be better taken care of. But one of them is at the British Museum, the result of one more looting by Lord Elgin.
This is the travel journal of our trip around Greece and Turkey, in the fall of 2019.
