Delphi
The mountain sanctuary of Apollo preserves treasuries, temples, a theatre, and stadium along the Sacred Way beneath Mount Parnassus.
Photo: tamara semina · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Country
- Greece
- Region
- Central Greece
- Civilisation
- Ancient Greek
- Period
- 8th century BCE–4th century CE
- UNESCO
- World Heritage
Through time
The story
Delphi, in legend previously called Pytho (Πυθώ), was an ancient sacred precinct in central Greece. It was 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. The term omphalos was the Greek word for "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 southwestern slope of Mount Parnassus. It is now an extensive archaeological site, and since 1938, it has been 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.
Adapted from Wikipedia under CC BY-SA 4.0.
What you will see
- Temple of Apollo
- Theatre
- Athenian Treasury
Before you go
- Check opening hours and ticket rules shortly before your visit — they change seasonally.
- Plan for the heat. Most ancient sites have little shade; go early or late.
- Respect the barriers. Fragile surfaces are protected for the next visitors.
Discoveries from Delphi
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