Why is the Erechtheum unusual?
The Erechtheion is an intricate temple. The temple is unusual in that it incorporates two porches (prostaseis); one at the northwest corner which is supported by tall Ionic columns, and one at the south-west corner which is supported by six massive female statues, the famous Caryatids.
What is unique about the Erechtheum?
The Erechtheion has a very unique structure and most of it was designed around its functions and mythological purposes. Another important aspect to understand about the structure of the Erechtheion is the uneven land that it was built on. The structure and its functions go hand and hand with each other.
What is a Erechtheum?
Erechtheum, ionic temple of Athena, built during 421–405 bc on the Acropolis at Athens, famous largely for its complexity and for the exquisite perfection of its details. It is believed by some that the temple was erected in honour of the legendary king Erechtheus. The architect was probably Mnesicles.
What was the Erechtheion famous for?
The Erechtheion (or Erechtheum) is an ancient Greek temple constructed on the acropolis of Athens between 421 and 406 BCE in the Golden Age of the city in order to house the ancient wooden cult statue of Athena and generally glorify the great city at the height of its power and influence.
What decorative style is used on the erechtheum?
The Erechtheion was built with in the ionic style that was typical for eastern Greece. The Ionic design was used to set the Erechtheion apart from the larger, Doric style used to construct the Parthenon (Camp, 2001).
What makes the Erechtheion strange?
The Erechtheion is often described as ‘unusual’ or ‘complex’ and this is because of its multifaceted purpose. The site is sacred ground and said to be the burial place of two important characters.
What was inside the Erechtheion?
Inside the entrance are altars, one to Poseidon, on which in obedience to an oracle they sacrifice also to Erekhtheus, the second to the hero Boutes, and the third to Hephaistos . . . here is also inside–the building is double–sea-water in a cistern.