Gods,Heroes,Myths Greek Mythology Homer's epics,Expeditions

According to one tradition, Erechtheus was a hero and king of Athens. Returning from Egypt with wheat, a symbol of prosperity, he helped the city during a time of plague. Recognizing his efforts, the people of Athens elevated him as their leader and king. By overturning the old title of "Kekropids," the new name "Athenians" was adopted for the city's inhabitants.

Additionally, Erechtheus is associated with the foundation of the Eleusinian Mysteries and the organization of the Panathenaea, a grand festival honoring the goddess Athena. According to tradition, Erechtheus's patriotism and his connection with Athena stemmed either from his upbringing by the goddess or from his parentage, being the son of Hephaestus and Gaia—one a god and the other a primordial deity.

Regarding his family, there are various versions. In one traditional account, Erechtheus married the nymph Praxithea, and together they had three sons—Cecrops, Pandorus, and Metion—and four daughters—Procne, Creusa, Chthonia, and Oreithyia. Other versions may add or alter the names of the children.

Finally, there is an alternative myth which states that the son of Erechtheus was Pandion. According to this version, Pandion had two sons, Erechtheus and Boutas, and two daughters, Procne and Philomela. Erechtheus inherited the kingdom, while Boutas became a priest of Athena and founder of the family of the Boutadæ or Eteoboutadæ, who were hereditary priests of the goddess.

Erechtheus faced the Eleusinians and the Thracians, led by Eumolpus, with his army. To secure victory, Erechtheus sacrificed one of his daughters, following an oracle's prophecy.

According to the continuation of the tradition, the sisters of the sacrificed daughter committed suicide, fulfilling the vow they had made to each other. The battle ended unhappily for everyone involved. In another version of the story, it is mentioned that Eumolpus was killed along with his two sons during the battle.

Immediately after the battle, according to tradition, Zeus struck Erechtheus with a lightning bolt in response to a plea from Poseidon. This occurred because Eumolpus was the son of Poseidon, and Zeus took it upon himself to punish Erechtheus for the death of Poseidon's child.