North of the Parthenon is the second great temple of the Acropolis – Erechtheion. Erechtheion Construction began in 421 bc and was stopped during the Sicilian Company. Completion of construction of the temple dates back to 409 bc The architect of the temple is unknown, but many believe that it was the famous Mnesikl. Erechtheion is probably not a temple, and a combined temple complex, which is dedicated to the ancient kings of Athens, as well as Athena and Poseidon. The temple is located at the very spot where there was a dispute between Athena and Poseidon for the right to possess the city.
The highlight of the temple is the so-called portico Caryatids, which is located on the south side of the temple complex. Caryatids – statues girls who are on a high pedestal and gracefully support the Asian type frieze and a marble roof. Currently, these statues are replaced with copies, but these five are in the Acropolis Museum and one in the British Museum. Northern side of the Erechtheion graceful colonnade of Ionic columns. The door is decorated with ornaments in the form of repeated large roses and with two handles on the right and the left is one of the finest examples Ionic style 5 th century bc Not far from the Erechtheion, according to legend, was a cave in which lived the sacred snake of the Acropolis.