Erichthonius (son of Hephaestus) facts for kids
In Greek mythology, Erichthonius was a famous early king of ancient Athens. He was a legendary figure, meaning his story is part of myths and legends rather than recorded history.
Some old Greek stories don't clearly separate Erichthonius from his grandson, Erechtheus. However, by the 300s BC, during the time known as Classical Greece, they were seen as two different people.
Contents
The Story of Erichthonius
How Erichthonius Was Born
According to some myths, Erichthonius was born from the soil itself, or from the Earth. The goddess Athena then adopted him or helped raise him. This special birth made him an "autochthon," which means "born from the earth" in Greek.
Erichthonius Becomes King
When Erichthonius grew up, he became the king of Athens. He took the throne from Amphictyon, who had been king for twelve years. Erichthonius married a water spirit called Praxithea. They had a son named Pandion I.
During his time as king, the goddess Athena often protected Erichthonius. He started the Panathenaic Festival to honor Athena. This was a big festival held in Athens, similar to the Olympic Games. He also set up a wooden statue of Athena on the Acropolis, a famous hill in Athens.
Important Inventions and Skills
Erichthonius taught his people many useful things. He showed them how to connect horses to pull chariots. He also taught them how to melt silver and how to use a plough to farm the land.
It was said that Erichthonius had trouble walking because his feet were lame. Because of this, he invented the quadriga, which is a chariot pulled by four horses. This made it easier for him to move around. He was also known for being a skilled chariot driver and often competed in games.
Erichthonius and the Stars
The god Zeus was so impressed with Erichthonius's skill as a chariot driver that he honored him after his death. Zeus placed him in the heavens as the constellation of the Charioteer, which is called Auriga.
Symbols and Legacy
The snake is a symbol often connected with Erichthonius. In the famous statue of Athena inside the Parthenon temple, a snake is shown hidden behind her shield. This snake represents Erichthonius.
The Erechtheum, one of the most sacred buildings on the Acropolis of Athens, is dedicated to Erichthonius. This shows how important he was to the people of ancient Athens.
Erichthonius was followed as king by his son, Pandion I.
| Regnal titles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Amphictyon |
King of Athens |
Succeeded by Pandion I |
Images for kids
- Erichthonius of Athens in art
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Erichthonius Released from His Basket by Antonio Tempesta (1606)
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Mercury, Herse and Aglauros by Jean-Baptiste Marie Pierre (1763)
