One Day Delphi

 

Famed for the uncanny accuracy of the Sibyl, a fortune-telling priestess, Delphi’s fame grew and attracted travellers seeking their fortunes from all over the ancient world. From Athens we’ll cross the fertile plain of Boeotia to the slopes of Mount Parnassus to explore the ruins of Delphi and get a sense of the remarkable power this mystical site still exerts today.

Visit the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios, and learn the story of this brave god’s triumph over the dragon that guarded the omphalos. This mysterious ‘navel stone’ marked the very centre of the world and gave the Sibyl her powers by making her the voice of Apollo. Visit the marble Treasury of the Athenians, built to store the rich offerings of grateful kings. See the stadium where the ancient Pythian Games, precursors to our modern Olympics, were lost or won. Visit the temple of Apollo, where the eternal flame burned in the gloom. Then explore the on-site museums where you can see the omphalos stone itself as well as masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture such as the bronze Charioteer and the famous athlete Aghias.

Enjoy a delicious traditional local lunch in the modern village of Delphi before passing through the ancient town of Thebes, to discover the story of tragic King Oedipus, whose terrible fate was foreseen by the oracle. Before heading back, marvel at the fascinating mountainous landscapes and the beautiful cities of Livadeia and Arachova, where there will be a short break before returning to Athens.