Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo in Delphi is one of the most important ancient Greek archaeological sites. It was dedicated to Apollo, the god of music, poetry, and prophecy.
The history of the temple can be traced back to the 7th century BC when it was first constructed. It was believed that the site was chosen by Zeus himself, who released two eagles from opposite ends of the world and they met at Delphi. This was seen as a sign from the gods that it was a sacred place.
The original temple was made of wood and suffered several fires over the years. In 548 BC, the temple was destroyed by fire and was rebuilt using stone. The new temple, known as the “Temple of Apollo” or “Apollo’s sanctuary,” was constructed in the Doric order and had six columns on its short sides and 15 columns on its long sides.
The Temple of Apollo became a prominent religious and cultural center in ancient Greece. It served as the home to the Oracle of Delphi, a priestess who served as a medium between humans and the gods. People from all over Greece would come to consult the oracle and seek guidance or advice.
The oracle’s prophecies were highly respected and had a significant impact on politics, religion, and even warfare. Many Greek leaders sought her advice before making important decisions. The fame of the Oracle increased over time, attracting visitors from far-off lands, including Egypt and Persia.
In addition to the sanctuary itself, there were other structures surrounding the temple complex. These included treasuries built by different Greek city-states to commemorate their victories or show their wealth. The most famous treasury is the Siphnian Treasury, known for its frieze depicting mythological scenes.
The Temple of Apollo remained an important religious site until Christianity became the dominant religion in Greece. In 394 AD, Emperor Theodosius I banned all pagan worship, and the temple was closed and eventually fell into ruin.
Today, the Temple of Apollo in Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.



Stadium
The stadium in Delphi is an ancient Greek stadium located in the archaeological site of Delphi. It was built in the 5th century BCE and was used for various athletic and religious events.
The stadium was originally constructed to host the Pythian Games, one of the four Panhellenic Games of ancient Greece. These games were held every four years in honor of Apollo, the god of prophecy, who was believed to speak through the Oracle of Delphi. The games featured various athletic competitions, including foot races, wrestling, and equestrian events.
The stadium had a capacity of about 7,000 spectators, with stone seating on one side and grassy banks on the other. The track itself was made of a hard gravel surface known as krepidoma. The stadium also had starting blocks and starting lines for foot races.
In addition to hosting the Pythian Games, the stadium was also used for other events and festivals throughout the year. It served as a gathering place for religious ceremonies and processions, as well as a venue for concerts and theatrical performances.
Over the centuries, the stadium fell into disrepair and was eventually buried under layers of sediment. It was rediscovered and excavated in the early 20th century by archaeologists from the French School at Athens. The excavation revealed the well-preserved remains of the stadium, including its seating area, track, and starting lines.


Tholos of Athena
The Tholos of Athena is a circular temple located in Delphi, Greece which was dedicated to the goddess Athena. It was built around 340 BC on the slopes of Mount Parnassus near the famous Oracle of Delphi and is still visible today.
The Tholos of Athena was built by Theodorus of Samos for the Athenian League with funds provided by Alexander the Great. It consists of a two-story rotunda, with an altar at the entrance and eight columns forming an octagonal plan. The purpose of the building was to serve as a place to pray to Athena and also as a place to deposit votive offerings and gifts for her.
Inside the Tholos, there was a statue of the goddess Athena, which was presented by Alexander the Great after his victory over Darius III of Persia. It stands as a reminder of Athena’s role in protecting and helping the people of Delphi.
The Tholos of Athena was destroyed by an earthquake in 373 AD, but it was later rebuilt by Hadrian in 131 AD. Today, the ruins of the Tholos still remain and are recognized as an important archaeological site. In 2019, a project was launched to restore and conserve the ruins of the Tholos of Athena.




Archaeological museum
Some beautiful artifacts from the area. Descriptions following up soon!









Used to be a center in the old world.











Athenian Treasury
The Athenian Treasury was a building located in the ancient Greek city of Delphi. It was built around 500 BC and served as a treasury for the city-state of Athens.
The treasury was constructed with funds provided by the Athenians and served as a display of their wealth and power. It was also used to store valuable offerings and dedications made to the gods at the nearby Delphi Oracle.
The building was designed in the Ionic style of architecture, which was characteristic of Athens during this time period. It featured columns, a frieze, and a pediment, which were all decorated with intricate sculptures and reliefs.
Throughout its existence, the Athenian Treasury went through several renovations and additions. It was damaged by fire in 548 BC but was later rebuilt. In the 4th century BC, the building was expanded and updated with new sculptures and architectural features.
The treasures housed within the treasury included gold and silver objects, statues, and other valuable items. These offerings were made by individuals, as well as by the Athenian state, as a way to honor the gods and seek their favor.
The Athenian Treasury played an important role in the religious and political life of Athens. It served as a symbol of the city’s wealth and power and showcased its dedication to the gods. It also served as a place for religious rituals and ceremonies to be performed.


Sanctuary Theatre
The Sanctuary theatre in Delphi, Greece, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have been built in the 4th century BCE and was dedicated to the god Dionysus, the Greek god of theater and wine.
According to legend, the theater was established during the reign of King Midas, a mythical king known for his golden touch. It is said that Midas was a patron of the arts and wanted to create a space where performers could showcase their talents. In honour of Dionysus, the god associated with theater, Midas constructed the Sanctuary theatre in Delphi.
The theater originally consisted of a semi-circular orchestra and a rectangular stage. Seating was carved into the natural slope of the hillside, allowing for a maximum capacity of around 5,000 spectators. The acoustics were carefully designed so that even those sitting in the highest seats could hear the performances clearly.
Over the centuries, the Sanctuary theatre was used for a variety of performances and events. Plays, poetry recitations, and musical performances were all held within its walls. The theater was also an important gathering place for religious ceremonies and festivals.
One notable event that took place at the Sanctuary theater was the Pythian Games, held every four years in honor of Apollo. These games included athletic competitions, musical and dramatic performances, as well as religious rituals. The winners of the games were awarded laurel wreaths, considered a great honor.
In Roman times, the Sanctuary theater fell into decline as the popularity of gladiatorial games and other forms of entertainment grew. It was eventually abandoned and forgotten, buried under layers of earth and debris.
In the 19th century, archaeologists began excavations at Delphi and rediscovered the Sanctuary theater. It has since been partially restored and is now open to visitors who can marvel at its ancient beauty.
It used to have the marble reliefs of labour of Heracles (Hercules) that are now located in Delphi museum.


Omphalos
The omphalos in Delphi is a sacred stone that has been revered since ancient times. It is believed to be the center of the world, or the navel of the earth.
According to Greek mythology, Zeus released two eagles from the opposite ends of the earth and they met at Delphi, indicating this as the center of the world. To mark this sacred spot, an omphalos was placed there.
The omphalos was a stone that resembled a beehive and was usually made of marble. It was carved with intricate patterns and often had a hollow in the middle, resembling a belly button, hence its name “omphalos,” which means “navel” in Greek.
The omphalos was considered to be the meeting point between mortals and gods. It was believed to have special powers and was consulted by priests and priestesses for divination purposes. People from all over Greece would come to Delphi to seek guidance from the oracle at the temple of Apollo, where the omphalos was housed.
Throughout history, Delphi was a thriving religious and cultural center. It hosted the Pythian Games, which were second only to the Olympic Games in importance. It also served as a gathering place for political and military councils.
The omphalos remained an important symbol even after Christianity became the dominant religion in Greece. It was incorporated into Christian art and became associated with the Virgin Mary, representing her as the mother of God and the center of divine grace.
Today, the omphalos is still preserved and can be seen at the Delphi Archaeological Museum.


Castalian Spring
Castalian Springs is a small village located near the ancient site of Delphi in Greece. It is named after the natural springs that are found in the area. These springs were considered sacred in ancient times and were associated with the Oracle of Delphi.
According to Greek mythology, the springs were created by a violent earthquake that occurred at Delphi. The earthquake was said to have been caused by Zeus, the king of the gods, in order to mark the site as sacred. When the waters emerged from the ground, they were believed to be blessed and imbued with divine power.
In ancient times, the springs were venerated by both locals and pilgrims who came to seek advice and guidance from the Oracle. The Oracle of Delphi was a priestess who served as a medium between the gods and mortals. She would sit over a fissure in the rock at the Temple of Apollo, which was located near the springs, and inhale its vapors to enter a trance-like state. In this state, she would deliver prophecies and advice to those who sought her wisdom.
The waters of the Castalian Springs were also said to have cleansing properties. Pilgrims would bathe in them before entering the sanctuary of Apollo, believing that it would purify their bodies and spirits.
Over time, the popularity of the Oracle of Delphi waned and the site fell into ruins. The springs continued to flow, however, and were still visited by travelers.
Today, Castalian Springs is a popular tourist destination for those visiting Delphi. The springs are no longer considered sacred but are still admired for their natural beauty. Visitors can walk along a path that leads to the springs and marvel at the crystal-clear water flowing from the rocks.
While many of the legends surrounding Castalian Springs are rooted in mythology, they still hold a certain allure for those who visit this historic site. The springs are a tangible connection to the ancient past and a reminder of the sacredness that was once attributed to them.
However, today then access to the springs remains closed to visitors. I even asked a local waitress if it is possible to access if you know a guy who knows the guy, but she said she tried that and they’ve got caught by a man with a whistle.


Rock of Sybil
Sybil Rock is a famous landmark located in the ancient Greek city of Delphi. It is known for its association with a prophetic oracle called the Sibyl, who was consulted by Greeks seeking advice and predictions for the future.
The history of Sybil Rock dates back to ancient times when Delphi was considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. The Sibyl, also known as Pythia, was believed to have the ability to communicate with the gods and deliver prophecies. She would sit on a tripod at the top of Sybil Rock, above a fissure in the earth known as the chasm.
The Sibyl was an essential figure in ancient Greek society, as her prophecies high rank people decisions. According to ancient Greek mythology, the Oracle was a priestess who could communicate with the gods. People from all over would come to Delphi to seek her advice and predictions. The Oracle would sit on a tripod over a chasm in the rock, and it was said that she would enter a trance-like state and speak in riddles and prophecies. Her predictions were highly regarded and influenced many important decisions and events in ancient Greece.
Over time, many structures were built around Sybil Rock, including temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses. These buildings served as places of worship and as a gathering spot for worshippers seeking guidance from the Sibyl. The rock itself became an iconic symbol of the oracle and a popular destination for pilgrims.
However, with the decline of ancient Greece and the rise of Christianity, interest in the Sibyl waned. The last recorded consultation with the oracle occurred in AD 393 when Emperor Theodosius I banned pagan rituals and closed down all pagan sites, including Delphi.

Stoa of the Athenians
The Stoa of the Athenians is an ancient Greek building located in Delphi, Greece. It was built in the 4th century BC and served as a place for Athenian visitors to gather and relax.
The Stoa was constructed during a time of great significance for Athens. The city was at its peak of power and influence, and many Athenians would travel to Delphi to seek guidance from the oracle. The construction of the Stoa can be seen as a testament to the wealth and prestige of Athens at this time.
The building itself was an example of classical Greek architecture, with its colonnade and pediment. It provided ample space for visitors to sit and rest while taking in the views of the surrounding landscape. The Stoa also housed several shops and businesses, making it a bustling hub of activity.
During its heyday, the Stoa attracted many notable individuals, including philosophers, poets, and statesmen. It provided a space for intellectual discussions and debates, further enhancing its reputation as a center of culture and learning.
Unfortunately, like many ancient buildings, the Stoa fell into disrepair over the centuries. Today, only a few columns and parts of the original structure remain.
Overall, the Stoa of the Athenians played an important role in ancient Greek society. It served as a gathering place for Athenians visiting Delphi and was a symbol of their wealth and influence.
Polygona wall, contracts of slaves on the wall
The Polygonal wall in Delphi is a structure that dates back to ancient times. It was built during the 6th century BCE and served as a protective fortification for the ancient city of Delphi.
Delphi was an important religious and cultural center in ancient Greece, famous for its oracle and the Temple of Apollo. The city was located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, making it vulnerable to attacks from neighboring communities.
To protect the city, the inhabitants decided to construct a fortified wall. The Polygonal wall was built using large, irregularly shaped stones that fit together like a puzzle. This construction technique gave the wall its name, as it resembled a polygon when viewed from a distance.
The wall was around 1.5 kilometers long and encircled the main part of the ancient city. It had several watchtowers and gateways that provided access to the city. The wall was also reinforced with bastions and towers at strategic points to increase its resistance.
Over the centuries, the Polygonal wall underwent several modifications and repairs. In the 4th century BCE, during the reign of Philip II of Macedon, Delphi became part of the Macedonian Empire, and new fortifications were added to the existing wall.
During the Roman period, Delphi lost its prominence, and the city gradually declined. The Polygonal wall fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned. Many of its stones were taken by later civilizations to build other structures.
Today, only parts of the original Polygonal wall remain intact. Visitors can still see sections of the fortification as they explore Delphi’s archaeological site. The wall serves as a reminder of Delphi’s historical significance and its efforts to protect itself from external threats during ancient times.




Gymnasium
The ancient gymnasium in Delphi was a significant center of physical and intellectual activities. It is believed to date back to the Bronze Age, but it gained prominence during the Classical period (5th-4th century BCE).
According to legend, the gymnasium was established by Hercules himself, who instructed his fellow Greeks in various athletic disciplines. It was said that Hercules trained in Delphi before embarking on his famous Twelve Labors.
In reality, the gymnasium was an important training ground for athletes participating in the Pythian Games, one of the four Panhellenic games held in Ancient Greece. The games were dedicated to Apollo, and winners were awarded a laurel wreath and considered champions of their respective disciplines. Another legend says that this is the place where Odeysseus leg was injured by wild boar.
The gymnasium itself consisted of several structures, including a large exercise area surrounded by colonnades, changing rooms, lecture halls, and a palaestra (wrestling area). The athletes would undergo rigorous training in various athletic disciplines such as running, jumping, throwing, wrestling, and boxing.
Aside from physical activities, the gymnasium also served as an intellectual center. Philosophers, poets, and scholars would gather here to engage in debates and exchange ideas. It was believed that physical and intellectual pursuits were interconnected and essential for promoting overall human excellence.
The gymnasium and its surrounding area were adorned with statues, temples, and treasuries dedicated to various gods and goddesses. Some of these structures still stand today, giving an insight into the grandeur of this ancient site.
Despite its significance, the gymnasium gradually fell into decline during the Roman era. By the 4th century CE, it had lost its prominent status as a center of physical and intellectual activities.
We were not able to access it, but you still can enjoy the view from the top.



Roman forum
It has famous columns and nice views.


