Tuesday 19th March 2013 +1.0hrs GMT: Athens, Greece ­ The Acropolis: The Erechtheion

The Erechtheion is another temple of the north side of the Acropolis built between 421 and 406 BC and associated with some of the most ancient and holy relics of the Athenians: the Palladion, a wooden effigy, believed to have fallen from heaven and, therefore, not man-made, of Athena Polias (Protectress of the City); the marks of Poseidon’s trident and the salt water well (the "salt sea") that resulted from Poseidon's strike; the sacred olive tree that sprouted when Athena struck the rock with her spear in her successful rivalry with Poseidon for the city and many more which you can read about at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erechtheum

The most famous feature of the Erechtheion on its south side, is the "Porch of the Maidens", comprising six draped female figures (caryatids) forming supporting columns. These caryatids look out proudly towards the Parthenon opposite and alongside the ancient sacred way of the Panatheniac procession.

Lord Elgin removed the second caryatid from the left and you can guess where that is and in fact what you see today are replicas since the other five are in the Acropolis Museum.

There is so much to know and learn about the Acropolis and Greek mythology and religion.  It was a real joy to see these dramatic pieces of Greek architecture in the strong sunlight but sharp wind this morning.  After an hour it was time to make our way back down the hill and look for a few souvenirs.  I found a fridge magnet in the form of an owl – yes another to add to my collections of owls and magnates – and regarded as the emblem of Athens depicting ‘wisdom’