DELPHI

We depart from Athens to the Sanctuary of Delphi, where you will enjoy a majestic and awe-inspiring landscape with its spectacular mountains. Passing through the region of tragic Thebes, we make our way to the slopes of Mount Parnassus and reach the archaeological site of Delphi. Delphi was one of the major religious centers of ancient times, where the sanctuary of Apollo, the god of harmony and music, and guardian of Zeus’s sacred laws, attracted countless pilgrims who came to consult the oracle. According to legend, Delphi was founded by Zeus, who, eager to find the center of the world over which he reigned, sent two eagles to explore his empire. The birds perched atop Mount Parnassus and discovered the “omphalos,” the navel, which made Delphi the center of the Universe.

From early on, the Oracle of Delphi gained great influence throughout the known world. The prophecies of the priestess of Apollo had a significant impact on individual decision-making and sometimes had enormous repercussions in the history of ancient cities and states. The god spoke through her in an incomprehensible language that was heard and interpreted by the priestesses. An atmosphere of mystery still surrounds its ruins.

We walk along the Sacred Way that ascended to the Temple of Apollo, adorned with countless offerings from Greek and foreign cities. In addition to statues, cities dedicated treasures to the god, which housed offerings in the form of small temples. We will visit treasures such as the Treasury of Sifnos, the Treasury of Thebes, and the Treasury of the Athenians.

Visiting the Delphi Museum is absolutely essential once you are at the archaeological site. It is one of the most important museums in Greece, housing in a simple and pleasant manner the artworks discovered in Delphi during excavations conducted by the French School of Athens. In the vestibule, you will find a conical marble block covered by a sculpted net. This is a Hellenistic copy of the omphalos, which marked the center of the known world. We will also see the famous statue of the Delphi Charioteer, perfectly preserved. It dates back to the Archaic period and was part of a bronze votive offering representing the victorious quadriga of the Olympic Games.

Lunch will be served at a pleasant family restaurant near the village of Delphi. Afterward, we will return to Athens following the same route.