Question

The Erechtheum (421 to 407 B.C.) sits on the sloped north side of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. Among other things, it is famous for its columns. What are the two types of columns used to support its entablatures?

Answer

The Erechtheum has ionic columns on its east side and caryatids on its south side. A caryatid is a sculpted female figure serving as an architectural support taking the place of a column. Of the original six caryatids at the "Porch of the Maidens," one is in the British museum and five are in the Acropolis Museum. The caryatids supporting the entablature at the Erechtheum are replicas.