Zeus, the god of the sky, lightning, and thunder, opened his hands and released two eagles, one to go east and the other west. After encircling the world, they met each other at a point that would be recognized as the center of the world. That point was Delphi.
This is according to Greek mythology and is also why the ancient Greeks regarded Delphi as a religious sanctuary.
They were so sure that it was the center of the world that they marked it with a stone monument known as the “omphalos of Delphi.” This was a symbol of the stone Zeus threw from the sky to mark the point where the two eagles crossed paths.
Oracle And Pythia
Located on Mount Parnassus in upper central Greece, this archaeological site is best known for the Sanctuary of Apollo. This is where the legendary Oracle of Delphi gave cryptic predictions and guidance to the rulers of the time.
Strangely enough, for a world ruled by men, a woman was chosen for the role of the high priestess, called Pythia, to serve as the revered oracle. She had a huge influence throughout the ancient world and was consulted before all important decisions or undertakings, including warfare.
It was believed that the violent ravings she had before a prophecy were due either to an ethylene-like gas escaping from the rock chasms or to chewing leaves such as oleander. So basically, she was high on some type of drug, and that was interpreted as her entering a divine state, ready to communicate with the gods.
Walking Among Ruins
A trip to Delphi is not only a step back in time but also a step into a different realm. It is a place of wonder and myth. Walking around the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, you can almost imagine the place where the oracle would have been consulted. I must say, it feels slightly surreal.
The day that I visited, there were a few rolls of thunder in the air, almost as if Zeus was still keeping an eye on things. I had more than a few goosebumps while walking around.
It is also probably the most attractive archaeological site in the whole of Greece, with spectacular views over the nearby valley and mountains. The ancient Greeks sure knew where to build their most impressive structures to get the most out of nature.
Main Sites Of Delphi
The archaeological site of Delphi is huge and you need at least three hours to see it all. There are descriptions next to the most important sites that will tell you exactly what it is you are witnessing and how it would have looked in ancient times. Look out for the following must-see sites:
Temple of Apollo
This is the site from where the Oracle of Delphi would have made her predictions and prophecies. It is arguably the most famous site of ancient Delphi.
Treasury of the Athenians
The treasuries you will find throughout this archaeological site were built to thank the oracle for advice that contributed to victories.
The Treasury of the Athenians is the most impressive of these, and also the best preserved. It is believed that this treasury was dedicated to Apollo by the Athenians after their victory against the Persians at the Battle of Marathon (490 BC).
The Stadium
Ancient Delphi was home to the Pythian Games, which were held every four years to honor the gods. They were part of a religious festival and were second in importance only to the Olympic Games.
The Theatre
This is my personal favorite and when you see it, you will understand why. The Delphic theatre was built in order to give spectators a magnificent view of the entire sanctuary and the valley below.
It could accommodate 5,000 spectators and hosted the musical and dramatic contests of the Pythian Games, as well as other religious festivals. Standing in the middle of the theatre is simply awe-inspiring and was probably the highlight of my day.
Delphi Archaeological Museum
This museum is close to the archaeological site and has an impressive collection of artifacts associated with ancient Delphi. This includes the colossal Sphinx of Naxos, originally erected next to the Temple of Apollo.
The 2.22-meter-tall marble statue represents a mythical creature with the head of a woman, the chest and wings of an eagle and the body of a lioness.
Read More: Inside Crete’s Palace of Knossos: Minotaur Myths, Minoan Plumbing and Sir Arthur Evans’s Legacy
How To Visit
Photo by Emerina Boshoff
Delphi is a beautiful part of Greece and makes for a great day trip from Athens. You can rent a car, join a tour group, or take the local buses from the Liossion KTEL Bus Station in central Athens.
The drive from Athens to Delphi is just under three hours. It is a long and winding road, but the scenery is jaw-dropping.
If you choose to stay overnight, you will get to experience Delphi without the day-trip crowds. Chill with a coffee or a glass of wine in one of the quaint cafés in the village. With views that stretch over endless mountains, Delphi is meant to be appreciated for more than just its archaeological ruins.
Whichever way you decide to visit Delphi, you will find it a spectacular place full of magic and mystery. And you will come to understand why it is called the center of the ancient world. Just like I did.
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Author Bio: After 14 years in the retail business as HR Director, I have finally decided to pursue my real passion in life: writing and traveling. I have traveled to 34 countries and mostly travel solo or with my two kids. I live in Cape Town, South Africa, which is, in my humble opinion, one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in the world.
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