by John Greece

Created on: June 01, 2009

Delphi is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece with great historical interest. It is a mountainous region with strong historical and archaeological interest and suggested to those who want to make a rich background in the past. Visitors who would like to combine the passing from Delphi with summer vacations then they should choose the nearest beaches which located in the areas of Itea (17 kilometers) and Distomo (37 kilometers). Start from Athens along the national road network Amfissa-Livadia.

MYTHOLOGY

According to Greek Mythology, Delphi was the navel of the earth where were joined by two eagles sent by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the center of the world, and for many centuries been the spiritual and religious center and symbol of unity for the ancient Greeks. There are many different traditions and myths attached to Delphi from prehistoric times. One of them says that there was a temple dedicated to the female goddess Gaea, which was protected by Python, who was a terrible dragon. Later, Apollo killed Python and a new temple was built by the Cretans. By then, the myth has survived into festive representations made at Delphi, as the famous Pythia.

HISTORY

The first findings date from the Neolithic Age (4000 BC) and witness to the cults made by residents of that era. Also found residues Mycenaean settlement and cemetery. Between the 6th and 4th centuries BC Delphi experienced great prosperity. The oracle of Delphi, which was considered credible, gave oracles which expressed by Pythia and interpreted by the priests of Apollo. Made key predictions about the flood of Defkaliona, Argonautic campaign, and the Trojan war.

The decline began to come slowly, starting from the 3rd century BC with the emergence of the philosophical movement. During the Roman period, Delphi sometimes benefited and sometimes pillaged by the Romans. A few years later appeared the Christian religion. In 394 was a definitive end to the operation of the Oracle by decree of the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius I.

EXCAVATIONS

The area began to be investigated first by the Germans in 1860. In 1891 the French began systematic research. Throughout the excavations came to light several important findings were revealed by the ancient public life.

GEOGRAPHY

Delphi located close to the village Chrisso of Phocis prefecture in the region of Central Greece. It is a modern small town built at the foot of Mount Parnassos. Roadly, is 184 kilometers away from Athens and 379 kilometers away from Thessaloniki.

Learn more about this author, John Greece.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.