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> North celestial pole star trails - Karyatides

North celestial pole star trails - Karyatides

author: A.Ayiomamitis/Novapix

reference: a-pas01-00140

Image Size 300 DPI: 29 * 43 cm

One of the most stunning and well-recognized monuments associated with the Golden Age of Ancient Greece is the Erechtheion atop the Acropolis and which was constructed between 421 and 406 BC. Measuring over 8.0 meters in height, 20.0 meters in length and 11.2 meters in width, its southern compartment is comprised of six maidens (known as karyatides) whose head and torso not only grace the sides of the rectangular marble structure but whose heads also support its roof. The marble maidens are approximately 2.36 meters in height, dressed in ancient chiton (ionic style) which extends down to their ankles and with richly interwoven hair reaching their back. Karyatides are literally the virgin maidens from the small town of Karyes approximately two hours southwest of Athens and who were best known for their dances during annual celebrations in honour of the Goddess Artemis. Nearly 2500 years later, the residents of Karyes decided to reconstruct a faithful replica of the Erechtheion (in 1983) for display in their town as a reminder of the historical connection between the Erechtheion in Athens and their maidens from well over two millenia ago.

Keywords for this photo:

2019 - ASTRONOMY - CIRCUMPOLAR - GREECE - LANDSCAPE - MONUMENT - NORTH CELESTIAL POLE - NORTHERN HEMISPHERE - POLARIS - POLE STAR - ROTATION - STAR - STAR TRAILS - STARRY SKY - STATUE -