iStock 911108524

DELPHI | THE CENTRE OF THE WORLD

Delphi was an important ancient Greek religious sanctuary sacred to the god Apollo. Located on Mt. Parnassus near the Gulf of Corinth, the sanctuary was home to the famous oracle of Apollo which gave cryptic predictions and guidance to both city-states and individuals. In addition, Delphi was also home to the panhellenic Pythian Games.

Delphi was also considered the centre of the world, for in Greek mythology Zeus released two eagles, one to the east and another to the west, and Delphi was the point at which they met after encircling the world. This fact was represented by the omphalos (or navel), a dome-shaped stone which stood outside Apollo’s temple.

It occupies an impressive site on the south-western slope of Mount Parnassus, overlooking the coastal plain to the south and the valley of Phocis. It is now an extensive archaeological site with a small modern town of the same name nearby. It is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in having had a phenomenal influence in the ancient world, as evidenced by the rich monuments built there by most of the important ancient Greek city-states, demonstrating their fundamental Hellenic unity.

Source: Ancient History Encyclopedia

Meet your Local Historian at the foot of the archaeological site and start a voyage in Greek mythology and ancient Greek history, as you are standing on the grounds of one of the most important religious sites of antiquity. Major political decisions have been taken after Pythia, the priestess, would deliver the, always ambiguous and riddle-like, message from the Gods: the oracle. Depending on understanding correctly or misinterpreting, numerous war victories and equal catastrophes have followed each oracle given in Delphi. Allow your guide to introduce you to all the true facts and all the legends that have been embracing this magnificent, powerful site, while you visit one by one the important monuments; the Treasury of the Athenians, in eminent position; the Theatre, where religion meets politics & social life; the Temple of Apollo, to whom the site was dedicated; further up, the Stadion, one of the best-preserved monuments of its kind. At the lower part the famous Tholos of the Athena Pronaia and the ancient Delphi gym. Towards the end the tour, while you make your way to the outstanding new museum of Delphi, take a moment to look up and contemplate the imposing vertical rocks standing above you. Somewhere there must wander the Olympian Gods. Besides, remember, you’re at the centre of the world.

Duration: approximately 2 Hours

Cost: Prices upon request

What’s included: Local Licensed Historian, Entrance to Archaeological Site and New Delphi Museum.

LOCATION                                                 LINKS                         

Delphi, Τ.Κ. 330 54                                   Detailed Information

(1.5h drive from Agios Konstantinos)   Delphi Museum

BLUE MOSAIC VILLAS IN THE AREA