Greek Temples- The Erechtheion

Who was the patron god/goddess?

Athena and Poseidon

What order of temple is it?

Ionic, but with an irregular plan to accommodate for the existing olive tree, trident mark, tomb of Erechtheus and the sloping nature of the north side of the acropolis

When was it built?

5th century BC (421-406)

Who commissioned it?

Pericles

Who was the architect?

Mnesicles

What side was the caryatid porch?

South portico

What myth is associated with the foundation of the temple

The naming of Athens

What significance did it serve to religious life?

• dedicated to Athena, Palladian of olive wood statue was kept there, if it was to burn = bad omen

• Mythological tomb

• Offerings given

• Trident, Olive tree and salt water spring

How many chambers did the temple have?

Three cellae

What inscriptions did it contain?

Those referring to workmen, materials and wages

What was I steered into the guilloche ornamentation?

Gold beads

What mouldings were there?

Egg and dart patterns and bead and reel patterns

What colour was the frieze?

Blue-black stone with white marble figures in relief

What was done to the statue every year?

It was presented with a new peplos, believed to have fallen from the heavens