The place where the Erechtheion stands is a mythical location where two heavyweights from the Greek pantheon faced off: Poseidon versus Athena. Poseidon struck the ground here with his trident, which is now the site of the Erechtheion. At that point of impact, seawater spilled forth from nowhere, providing the city with a link to the sea. However, Athena planted an olive tree at the same spot as a gift to the city. The king of Athens, having to choose a side, determined that the olive tree was more useful to the city than the sea. And that is why the city is not by the sea but on the olive grove-rich hills further inland. Thus, Athena also became the goddess of the city. There is still an olive tree at this location, although it was planted in 1917.
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