The archaeological complex of Delphi is a very special place to
Greek mythology and cosmology. It was considered the home of the
powerful Oracle, and the center of the universe for much of its history.
This and the fact that Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site are just
two of the intriguing reasons Delphi has become a must-see spot when
visiting Greece.
Dramatically located at the foot of Mount Parnassos, this Pan-Hellenic sanctuary's location and scenic landscape adds to its mystery and overall appeal. It is not a wonder why Ancient Greece made this spot a religious center and iconic symbol for unity in the country. You can hardly separate Dephi's past from the myths of ancient Greece. Thus, it has become a place of both history and mythology.
When you visit Delphi, expect to see a collection of ruins, which were once significant and powerful buildings in the ancient world. One important landmark found here, is a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena. This sanctuary, which is also called Athena Pronaia, is the first structure visitors would encounter when they came from Athens. Within its walls are three temples and the famous Tholos, a round temple with an unusual marble coloring that has become a symbolic landmark for Delphi.
The ancient settlement of Delphi can be found outside Athena Pronaia's walls. A gymnasium, where people learn and practice various sports is situated to the northwest of this sanctuary. If you head further up the slope, you will encounter the Castalian spring, which was the site's sacred spring. Travellers who came to consult the Oracle would usually bathe and drink the spring waters first.
The sanctuary of Apollo occupies the central part of Delphi. Once you reach this section, and enter the main entrance at the southeast corner, you will find the Sacred Way, a street that leads to the imposing temple of Apollo. During ancient times, the street was lined with treasuries, monuments and statues. The temple of Apollo is the most impressive structure in the complex because it has been remarkably preserved for many centuries.
According to Greek Mythology, this is the spot where the priestess Pythia delivered the oracles. While exploring the site on foot, do not forget to also drop by Delphi's museum, which features a wide selection of artifacts found within the site. After your visit, consider dropping by Galaxidi and Arachova. They are the nearest towns in the area, and are known for their excellent locally made products such as wine, yogurt and honey.
Delphi is about 189 kilometers away from Athens. It has become a popular day trip destination for tourists based in Greece. There are many companies located in the capital that regularly offer tour packages to Delphi, which is why there are always busloads of visitors coming to the site every day. You have the choice to book a tour or arrange your own trip to save money. If you opt for the latter, you need to take one of the long distance bus services from Athens. The journey to the archaeological site is approximately 3 hours. Buses leave several times daily from Bus Terminal B. It is best to purchase the tickets to Delphi at least a day earlier than your scheduled trip as tickets tend to sell out from time to time
Dramatically located at the foot of Mount Parnassos, this Pan-Hellenic sanctuary's location and scenic landscape adds to its mystery and overall appeal. It is not a wonder why Ancient Greece made this spot a religious center and iconic symbol for unity in the country. You can hardly separate Dephi's past from the myths of ancient Greece. Thus, it has become a place of both history and mythology.
When you visit Delphi, expect to see a collection of ruins, which were once significant and powerful buildings in the ancient world. One important landmark found here, is a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena. This sanctuary, which is also called Athena Pronaia, is the first structure visitors would encounter when they came from Athens. Within its walls are three temples and the famous Tholos, a round temple with an unusual marble coloring that has become a symbolic landmark for Delphi.
The ancient settlement of Delphi can be found outside Athena Pronaia's walls. A gymnasium, where people learn and practice various sports is situated to the northwest of this sanctuary. If you head further up the slope, you will encounter the Castalian spring, which was the site's sacred spring. Travellers who came to consult the Oracle would usually bathe and drink the spring waters first.
The sanctuary of Apollo occupies the central part of Delphi. Once you reach this section, and enter the main entrance at the southeast corner, you will find the Sacred Way, a street that leads to the imposing temple of Apollo. During ancient times, the street was lined with treasuries, monuments and statues. The temple of Apollo is the most impressive structure in the complex because it has been remarkably preserved for many centuries.
According to Greek Mythology, this is the spot where the priestess Pythia delivered the oracles. While exploring the site on foot, do not forget to also drop by Delphi's museum, which features a wide selection of artifacts found within the site. After your visit, consider dropping by Galaxidi and Arachova. They are the nearest towns in the area, and are known for their excellent locally made products such as wine, yogurt and honey.
Delphi is about 189 kilometers away from Athens. It has become a popular day trip destination for tourists based in Greece. There are many companies located in the capital that regularly offer tour packages to Delphi, which is why there are always busloads of visitors coming to the site every day. You have the choice to book a tour or arrange your own trip to save money. If you opt for the latter, you need to take one of the long distance bus services from Athens. The journey to the archaeological site is approximately 3 hours. Buses leave several times daily from Bus Terminal B. It is best to purchase the tickets to Delphi at least a day earlier than your scheduled trip as tickets tend to sell out from time to time
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