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The archaeological site of Delphi is one of the most important and richest in finds in Greece. For centuries, Delphi was the religious and spiritual center of the ancient Greeks, as it was home to the Panhellenic sanctuary and the most important oracle of Ancient Greece.
The beautiful Arachova and, of course, the Parnassos ski center are quite close by, so you have everything you need for a perfect weekend getaway.
Delphi, the navel of the earth
According to mythology, this is where the two eagles sent by Zeus met in order to discover the center of the world!
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Today, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular destinations in Greece due to its long history and the importance of the oracle in ancient times, its unique historical and archaeological finds, the beautiful natural landscape at the foot of Mount Parnassus, and, of course, its rich archaeological museum.
Excavations at the site began in 1860 by Germans, while in 1891, following approval by the Greek government, the French took over, specifically the French School of Athens, in order to begin the “Great Excavation” at the site where the village of Kastri once stood. The excavations at the site began in 1860 by Germans, and in 1891, after approval from the Greek government, the French, specifically the French School of Athens, took over in order to begin the “Great Excavation” at the site where the village of Kastri was located.
Kastri was eventually moved to where the modern city of Delphi is located, just a few kilometers from the archaeological museum.
Archaeological Museum of Delphi
The archaeological museum displays important exhibits from the excavations and has recently been renovated, offering important information about the rich history of the site and the oracle. The first building was constructed in 1903, and throughout the 20th century, repairs, extensions, and renovations were carried out to better serve the public.
website: https://delphi.culture.gr
It is worth visiting and admiring up close masterpieces of international renown such as the Sphinx of Naxos (560 BC) and, of course, the incomparable Charioteer (work of around 470 BC – The Charioteer of Delphi, or Heniokhos in English).
Monuments at the archaeological site of Delphi
However, walking around the archaeological site that has been revealed through excavations is a unique experience, as this is the only way to admire the unique monuments of Delphi up close. The most important monument is, of course, the sanctuary of Apollo, where the Pythia (the High Priestess of Apollo) in an enigmatic form, the interpretation of which was undertaken by the priests of the temple.
Other important monuments in the archaeological site include the ancient theater (with a capacity of 5,000 spectators), the Tholos of Athena Pronaia, the Treasury of the Athenians, the ancient Stadium, the Stoa of the Athenians, and others.
Accommodation and hotels at Delphi city close to the ancient site
You can stay overnight either in Delphi (hotels in Delphi) or, of course, in nearby cosmopolitan Arachova (hotels in Arachova).
text/photos: Yannis Tsouratzis
Photos from Delphi
Delphi map, how to get there
Distance Athens-Delphi
The distance between Athens and Delphi is approximately 185 kilometers, while the archaeological museum of Delphi is only 11 kilometers away from cosmopolitan Arachova. (Link to Google Maps with the route)
Useful telephone numbers Delphi (+30)
- Delphi Tourist Police: 22650 82 220
- Τουριστικό Γραφείο Πληροφοριών Δ. Δελφών: 22650 82 900
- Delphi Police Department: 22650 82 222
- Itea city, Health Center: 22650 32 224
- Δήμος Δελφών (Δελφοί): 22650 82 311, 82 192
- Archaeological Museum of Delphi tel: 22650 82313,2, 82346, website: https://delphi.culture.gr
- Μουσείο Δελφικών Εορτών «Σικελιανός» 22650 82175
Accommodation and hotels at Delphi city close to the ancient site
You can stay overnight either in Delphi (hotels in Delphi) or, of course, in nearby cosmopolitan Arachova (hotels in Arachova).
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