Central Greece & Attica – Greek Diaspora Travel
Things To Do In Delphi Greece
3 Things To Do In Delphi Greece
Delphi in Greece was the ancient ‘navel of the world’. Just over two hours from Athens, Delphi sits at the foot of Mount Parnassus and is of course famous for the ancient oracle of Apollo.
Here are the top 3 things to do in Delphi Greece:
1. Ancient Oracle of Delphi Greece
Follow the trail of an ancient Greek seeking the oracle of Delphi. Start at the Tholos of Athena Pronaia, where an ancient Greek would have offered a sacrifice. Then arrive at the Castallian Fountain, where an ancient Greek would have bathed before entering the site. Next, walk along the Sacred Way, which in ancient times was adorned by treasuries and statues offered by the mightiest Greek city states and kingdoms. After the first turn, you’ll find the intact Treasury of Athens, a small temple-like Doric building. At the end of the path, you’ll see the Doric Temple of Apollo. Here an ancient Greek would seek the oracle of the high priestess, Pythia. Turn around and you’ll see the Ancient Theatre, where an ancient Greek would have competed in a musical contest as part of the Pythian Games. This was considered the heart of the Delphic oracle. Above the theatre and at the highest level of the site, is the Stadium of Delphi, the best surviving stadium of antiquity in Greece!
Set aside at least three hours to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of ancient Delphi, one of the most important sites in Greece. The spectacular views overlooking the Gulf of Corinth and valley of olive trees is enough reason to come here, let alone the historical significance of the site with its mesmerising ruins. The all-day ticket for the site includes a visit to the Delphi Archaeological Museum.
2. Delphi Archaeological Museum
The Delphi Archaeological Museum was first founded after the completion of the archaeological excavations on the site. The most powerful Greek city states and kingdoms would offer statues and other treasures to ancient Delphi, partly as thanks to Apollo and partly to show off their might. The treasures that were found during excavations in Delphi are housed here, making it one of the most important museums in Greece. Visiting the museum before the sight will help you visualize what the site must have looked like with its wealthy buildings, statues, and other treasures.
Key exhibits include the perfectly intact bronze statue of the Charioteer (470 BC), the Large Sphynx of Naxos, and the two identical life-sized Kouroi.
3. Taverna Vakhos in Delphi, Greece
After a long morning or afternoon of hiking through ancient Delphi, refuel at the traditional Greek tavern. Enjoy fresh herbs gathered from the mountainside and locally sourced produce here. Delicious recipes include hearty lamb and rooster dishes, as well as trachanopita (a savoury pastry/pie filled with zucchini and feta).
Hot tip: Depending on how much time you have, Delphi can be a day trip from Athens or its own stay. Book your accommodation in Delphi or a neighbouring village such as Arachova. Either way, Arachova is certainly worth a visit, often referred to as the ‘Mykononos of the mountains’. Other nearby places worth a visit include Chryso, Galaxidi, Distomo, the monastery of Saint Louka, and Livadia.
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