Archaeological Site of Delphi
Delphi, Greece
09.05.2019
The Archaeological Site of Delphi, located in the town of Delphi in central Greece, is a must-visit destination for those interested in ancient Greek history and mythology. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, known for its rich cultural and historical significance.
Delphi was considered the center of the world in ancient times, believed to be the meeting place of gods and mortals. It was also home to the Oracle of Delphi, a priestess who was consulted by people seeking advice from the gods. This made Delphi a major religious and political center in ancient Greece.
The site is nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Gulf of Corinth. The archaeological remains at Delphi date back to the 8th century BC, with most of the structures being from the 4th century BC. The most iconic structure at the site is the Temple of Apollo, dedicated to the god of prophecy.
Visitors can explore the ruins of the temple, along with other structures such as the Ancient Theatre, the Tholos of Delphi, and the Stadium. These structures showcase the impressive architectural and engineering skills of the ancient Greeks. The site also features a museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and treasures found at Delphi, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi statue.
Aside from its historical and cultural significance, the Archaeological Site of Delphi is also a natural wonder. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, with the nearby Castalian Spring being a popular spot for visitors to drink from the holy water. The site also offers various hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area and take in the breathtaking views.
A visit to the Archaeological Site of Delphi is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the ancient world and its beliefs. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Greek mythology, history, or simply looking to experience the beauty of this ancient site. So, come and discover the wonders of the Archaeological Site of Delphi in Delphi, Greece.
The pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, where the oracle of Apollo spoke, was the site of the omphalos, the 'navel of the world'. Blending harmoniously with the superb landscape and charged with sacred meaning, Delphi in the 6th century B.C. was indeed the religious centre and symbol of unity of the ancient Greek world.
Delphi (; Greek: Δελφοί [ðelˈfi]), in legend previously called Pytho (Πυθώ), was an ancient sacred precinct and the seat of Pythia, the major oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The ancient Greeks considered the centre of the world to be in Delphi, marked by the stone monument known as the Omphalos of Delphi (navel).
According to the Suda, Delphi took its name from the Delphyne, the she-serpent (drakaina) who lived there and was killed by the god Apollo (in other accounts the serpent was the male serpent (drakon) Python).The sacred precinct occupies a delineated region on the south-western slope of Mount Parnassus.
It is now an extensive archaeological site, and since 1938 a part of Parnassos National Park. The precinct is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in having had a great influence in the ancient world, as evidenced by the various monuments built there by most of the important ancient Greek city-states, demonstrating their fundamental Hellenic unity.Adjacent to the sacred precinct is a small modern town of the same name.
