The Erechtheion is an ancient Greek temple located on the north side of the Acropolis in Athens. Here are some key aspects of the Erechtheion: The Erechtheion is renowned for its unique and intricate architectural design. It was built between 421 and 406 BC, during the Golden Age of Athens, and is considered one of the masterpieces of ancient Greek architecture. The temple was dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon, as well as other mythological figures. One of the most distinctive features of the Erechtheion is its Porch of the Maidens, also known as the Caryatid Porch. This porch is supported by six female figures, known as Caryatids, which serve as columns. The Caryatids are sculpted in the form of young women wearing intricately draped garments and elaborate hairstyles. The Erechtheion was built to accommodate several sacred sites and shrines. It housed the ancient wooden cult statue of Athena Polias, a sacred olive tree, and the tomb of the mythical king Erechtheus. The temple was believed to be the mythical birthplace of Athena and the site of the contest between Athena and Poseidon for the patronage of Athens. In addition to the Caryatid Porch, the Erechtheion features other notable architectural elements, including the Ionic frieze that runs along the exterior walls of the temple. The frieze depicts scenes from mythological stories, including the battle between the gods and the giants. Like many ancient Greek temples, the Erechtheion was constructed primarily of Pentelic marble, a fine-grained white marble quarried from Mount Pentelicus near Athens. The temple's marble columns, walls, and sculptural elements were meticulously carved and adorned with intricate details. The Erechtheion played a significant role in ancient Athenian religious and civic life. It was the site of important religious ceremonies, including the Panathenaic Festival, and served as a symbol of Athens' cultural and political prominence. Over the centuries, the Erechtheion suffered damage from earthquakes, wars, and weathering. However, extensive restoration and conservation efforts have been undertaken to preserve the temple's architectural integrity and historical significance. Today, the Erechtheion is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction in Athens. Overall, the Erechtheion stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistic achievements of ancient Greek civilization, and it continues to inspire awe and admiration among visitors to the Acropolis.
Country
Greece
Best Time to Visit
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Ideal Duration
n/a
Tourist VisaÂ
Indian citizens require a Schengen visa (Type C) for tourist visits to Greece, which is part of the Schengen Area. This visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.Â
Documents Required:
1. Passport
o Original passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages.
o Original old passport booklets, if any.
2. Photographs
o 3 recent passport-size photographs.
o White background; Glossy finish; 80% face covered with a little shoulder visible; Eyes and face clearly visible.
o Dimensions: 45mm x 35mm.
3. Covering Letter
o A covering letter per individual/family/company addressed to The Visa Officer, Embassy of Greece, New Delhi.
o The covering letter should briefly describe the profile of the applicants and the purpose of travel including travel dates.
o It can be on plain paper for individuals and on company letterhead for officials/sponsored applicants.
4. Bank Statements
o Original 3 months' personal and company's bank statements with the seal and signature from the bank.
o Bank statements should be from relevant and active accounts showing proof of funds and income.
o Bank statements should be dated close to the visa application date and preferably A4 size.
5. Income Tax Returns
o Latest 2 years Income Tax Acknowledgement / ITR-V (Saral) of individuals and the company.
6. Itinerary / Air Tickets
o Return air tickets with all internal flight/train tickets, if applicable.
o Day-wise itinerary of the tour.
7. Purpose of Travel / Accommodation
o Proof of accommodation such as booking certificates and payment receipts from the tour operator.
o If staying with a family member or friend, provide proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation from the host.
o Invitation or sponsorship letter from the host in Greece, detailing the duration of stay and including a copy of the host's passport or residence permit.
o Hotel vouchers or other proof of accommodation.
8. Supporting Credentials
Businessmen:
o Proprietorship certificate / Certificate of Registration / Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association / partnership deed.
o NOC from other partners or Directors in case of a partnership.
Employees:
o Leave sanction letter from the company (from the Government body in case of Government employees/public servants).
o Last 3 months' salary statements (only for private firms).
o Company ID card (optional).
o Retirement certificate or letter / Copy of pension book (for retired employees).
Students:
o Leave sanction letter from the educational institution (for travel during working days).
o Bonafide certificate from the educational institution (for travel during vacations).
o School/college ID card (optional).
Newly Wed / Honeymooners:
o Marriage certificate (Original).
o Wedding invitation card / photographs (if the certificate is not available).
Children traveling unaccompanied:
o Notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from both/either of the parents if unaccompanied.
o Passport copies/copy of both/either of the parents.
Travelers unaccompanied by spouses/partners:
o Notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from the unaccompanied spouse.
o Passport copy of the unaccompanied spouse or any Government ID proof mentioning spouse's name if not a passport holder.
9. Additional Supporting Documents (if available)
o FD receipts from banks.
o Public shares/debentures certificate.
o Asset evaluation report from a CA.
10. Travel Insurance
o Valid travel insurance from Embassy-approved companies covering the duration of travel with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000.
Ensure all documents are prepared according to the specific requirements of the Embassy of Greece in New Delhi. Verify the latest guidelines and ensure completeness and accuracy of all information before submitting your visa application.
Disclaimers
The above list of documents is the standard requirement for the visa application. The Embassy/Consulate/High Commission/Application Centres reserve the right to request additional documents for verification.
Travelspoc does not guarantee the outcome of any visa application. Decisions on visa applications are at the sole discretion of the respective Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.
Visa Application Centres and Embassy Information
Visa Application Centres: Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, Goa, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Kolkatta, Mumbai, New Delhi, Puducherry, PuneÂ
Embassy of Greece, Delhi    Â
Address: EP-32, Dr S. Radhakrishnan Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
Tel.: (009111) 26880700-4Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
E-mail: gremb.del@mfa.gr  grcon.del@mfa.gr
