According to myth, the two eagles released by Zeus met here, marking the “navel of the Earth”. The sanctuary and its Oracle flourished from the 8th century BC as the cult of Apollo prevailed. Systematic excavations by the French School of Archaeology from 1893 revealed the two sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena Pronaia, the Sacred Way and the treasuries of the Greek cities.
The Museum houses finds from the excavations of the sanctuary — sculpture, votive offerings, architectural pieces and fine metalwork that tell the story of the Oracle. Among its highlights is the bronze Charioteer, one of the best-known works of ancient Greek art.
The Temple of Apollo dominates the centre of the sanctuary. Here, according to tradition, the Pythia gave the oracles sought by cities and rulers from across the ancient world. Its surviving columns, set against the slopes of Parnassus, form one of the most iconic views in Greece.
The ancient theatre sits above the Temple of Apollo within the sanctuary. From its tiers the view sweeps over the monuments, the slopes of Parnassus and the Pleistos valley — one of the most striking spots on the site.
The sacred Castalian Spring, in the ravine between the Phaedriades cliffs, is bound to the cult of Delphi: here visitors to the sanctuary purified themselves before consulting the Oracle.
The Parnassus region is one of extreme beauty and flourishing nature. In winter, the Parnassus ski centre — the largest in Greece — enjoys generous snowfall thanks to its proximity to the sea. The rest of the year, its ranges are perfect for hiking, trekking, climbing and nature walks. At Pitho we offer storage for your ski equipment.
Built amphitheatrically on the slopes of Parnassus, Arachova lies just 8 km from our guesthouse. Its stone-paved lanes, shops and cafés make it a favourite destination, especially in winter.
Hosios Loukas, on the slopes of Mount Helicon in Boeotia, is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art, renowned for its mosaics. Together with Daphni and Nea Moni of Chios it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For opening hours and tickets for the archaeological site and the Museum, ask us or check the official website of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture.
Pitho Hotel · Delphi
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