DELPHI FROM ATHENS

Delphi is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus and it is here where the respected oracle of Delphi, the counselor of kings and pilgrims, took shelter. The tour begins early in the morning, where our bus will collect you at the agreed time and take you to this legendary archeological site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Passing by Thebes and approaching Mount Parnassus, right outside the city of Arachova, the landscape turns from arid to majestic and lush. Under the two gigantic cliffs named Fedriades, and on top of an impressive plateau, this famous pilgrimage site was established to honor Apollo, the god of harmony, music and guardian of the sacred laws of Zeus. For the ancient Greeks, Delphi was the center of the world, the 'navel' of the Earth.

The Delphi oracle acquired great influence all over the ancient world due to the prophecies of Pythia, the high priestess of Apollo. These prophecies would influence individuals and whole groups of people and even affected the fortune of whole city-states. It is said that Apollo would speak in an incomprehensible language, which would then be deciphered and interpreted by the priests.

As you walk along the Sacred Way, up to the temple of Apollo, you will come across one of the most important small buildings, the Treasury of the Athenians, which was built by the Athenians to thank the god Apollo for their victory at the battle of Marathon. Buildings like these would sometimes take the form of a temple and it is here where innumerable offerings, donated by Greek and foreign cities, would be kept. 

Finally, you will visit the museum of Delphi, which is considered one of the most important museums in Greece. There you will find treasures such as the "omphalos" or "navel of the world" dating back to the Roman times, parts of a frieze with scenes of the exploits of Hercules and the remarkable Charioteer of Delphi, a masterpiece of Greek sculpture that still impresses visitors today.

You may also visit the sanctuary dedicated to Athena Pronaia, which is located roughly half mile from the main buildings at Delphi.

At the end of your tour you will return to Athens in the late afternoon.

Greca Tip: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes as the visit requires a lot of walking on hilly terrain with rough stones underfoot.