This statue of a woman comes from a temple known as the Erechtheion in Athens. It is actually a support for the roof, used instead of the traditional stone column which is probably the most instantly recognisable feature of Greek architecture. It is a good starting point for considering the basic principles of Greek architecture and for exploring the Greek legacy in later architectural styles. The temple from which the figure comes can also prompt enquiries about the role of social and political role of religion in Greek city states.