DELPHI
DREAM TRIP THROUGH TIME AND HISTORY
At an altitude of 630 meters on the mountain of Parnassos in the province of Phocis, the village of Delphi is located surrounded by wild nature changing according to season. It is the second most famous archeological site in Greece after the Acropolis of Athens. Thousands of travelers visit Delphi from all around the world realizing a dream trip from the era of mythology until today.
Delphi was a sacred town and the most important oracle of the Ancient Greek world. The Ancient Greeks believed that it was the navel of the world. It was developed into a Panhellenic religious, cultural and commercial center having huge influence on the surrounding area of the Mediterranean. A significant number of oblations found in Delphi came from areas like Syria and Armenia, fact that proves the extension of influence of the sanctuary. Due to the prestige of the oracle, Greek towns seek its help in order to take serious decisions. Delphi maintained its important position until the end of the 4th century AD when the operation of oracle was banned with a decree of the Byzantine emperor Theodosius 1st. The following centuries the town declined and it was abandoned permanently.
A significant number of pilgrims who adored the history of the place, gave important information for the life in Delphi and they consisted the source for the start of excavations that brought to light unique priceless treasures. The older findings in the area of Delphi date back to 4,000 BC. During the 8th century BC the worship of Apollo prevailed and the development of the sanctuary and oracle began. Later, the first temples dedicated to Apollo and Athena were constructed. According to the archeological findings, in Delphi other gods like Poseidon, Dionysus, Mercury or Zeus were worshiped.
Today, the people who visit the area are interested and enjoy the combination of culture, history and nature. The excursion lovers feel the aromas of wild flowers blooming in the land of Phocis, discover unknown caves on pristine slopes, visit unique monuments of world heritage and enjoy the view eating local traditional food like salads, cheese, olives, pies, snacks and tsipouro (local alcoholic drink) in Arahova and Amfissa. During the trip to Delphi you will also discover other distinct destinations.
HIGHLIGHTS OF DELPHI
ARAHOVA
Arahova is a traditional village with stone houses located at an important position. It could be said that it is the “Mykonos of winter period” as it is the most famous and adored winter destination maybe because of the ski center of Parnassos which is situated at close distance to the village.
ITEA
Itea is a seashore town facing the Corinthian Gulf. Behind the town the Olive grove of Amfissa stretches out having as background the mountains of Ghiona and Parnassos. It was the commercial and military port of the Ancient town of Delphi and connected the central Greece with the Peloponnesus. Today it is a stop of cruisers during the summer period.
THE MONASTERY OF OSIOS LOUCAS
The monastery of Osios Loucas is an exquisite Christian monastery at the foot of mountain Elikonas which is worth visiting. A sample of Byzantine architecture of the 10th century AD contributed significantly during the Ottoman occupation. It possesses a collection of priceless treasures and it is considered by
UNESCO as monument of World Cultural Heritage
HISTORICAL HIKING TRAILS
There are two historical trails that attract the hiking lovers. The one trail is the ancient one of Kirra – Delphi which was the journey that was followed in ancient times by the pilgrims reaching by sea the port of Kirra with destination the temple of Apollo. The other trail starts in Delphi to the Corycian Cave through the steep slopes and evergreen trees reaching an altitude of 1,300 meters with incredible view the valley of Amfissa and the Corinthian Gulf.
“MY GREECE TOURS” organizes tailor-made tours in Greece for those who want to visit this unique destination. See further information regarding the tours that are offered in the area.
