The Erechtheion vs. The Pantheon

Attribute	The Erechtheion	The Pantheon
Location	Athens, Greece	Rome, Italy
Architectural Style	Ancient Greek	Ancient Roman
Construction Period	421-406 BC	27 BC
Function	Temple dedicated to multiple gods	Temple dedicated to all gods
Materials	Marble	Concrete with marble facade

Architecture

The Erechtheion, located on the Acropolis of Athens, is a temple dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. It is known for its unique design, with its porch supported by six female figures known as Caryatids. The temple also features Ionic columns and intricate carvings throughout the structure. In contrast, The Pantheon in Rome is a former Roman temple that is now a church. It is famous for its massive dome, which was the largest in the world for over a millennium. The Pantheon also has a portico with Corinthian columns and a circular opening at the top of the dome known as the oculus.

History

The Erechtheion was built between 421 and 406 BC, during the Golden Age of Athens. It was constructed to replace an earlier temple that was destroyed by the Persians. The temple's name comes from Erechtheus, a mythical king of Athens. The Pantheon, on the other hand, was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian between 118 and 128 AD. It was dedicated to all the gods of ancient Rome and has been in continuous use since its construction, making it one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings.

Religious Significance

The Erechtheion was dedicated to both Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, and Poseidon, the god of the sea. It housed the ancient wooden statue of Athena Polias, which was believed to have fallen from the sky. The temple also contained the sacred olive tree that Athena created during her contest with Poseidon for the patronage of Athens. In contrast, The Pantheon was originally dedicated to all the gods of ancient Rome. It was later converted into a Christian church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs in the 7th century.

Artistic Details

The Erechtheion is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, including the Caryatids that support the porch. These female figures are each unique in their poses and drapery, adding a sense of movement and life to the temple. The frieze of the temple also depicts the contest between Athena and Poseidon, as well as other mythological scenes. The Pantheon, on the other hand, features a coffered ceiling in the dome that reduces its weight and adds a decorative element. The interior of the dome is also adorned with various patterns and designs, creating a sense of grandeur and awe.

Architectural Influence

The Erechtheion has had a significant influence on later architectural styles, particularly in the use of Caryatids as decorative elements. The concept of using female figures as columns or supports has been replicated in various buildings around the world, including in the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. The Pantheon, on the other hand, has inspired countless architects with its innovative use of concrete in the construction of the dome. The building's dome has been studied and emulated by architects for centuries, leading to the development of new techniques and styles in architecture.