On the doorstep of one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, Delphi is a modern town near the Gulf of Corinth. The area has been occupied since the Neolithic period and was considered by ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world. Delphi was named after its famous oracle, believed to be a purveyor of the truth.
Things to do in Delphi
Spend a day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Delphi Archaeological Site, which is nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Referred to by Zeus as the “Naval of the Earth”, it was here that the famous Oracle of Delphi was consulted on major political decisions. Marvel at the Doric columns of the Temple of Apollo and soak up the rugged views from the amphitheatre, which once hosted the Pythian Games.
Ancient mosaics, statues and ceramics discovered at the site are on display at the Delphi Archaeological Museum, which was founded in 1903. Highlights include the 1.8-metre-high bronze “Charioteer of Delphi” statue and a frieze from the Siphnian Treasury. Don’t miss the magnificent Sphinx of Naxos, a marble statue that once stood outside the Temple of Apollo.
A short drive north of Delphi is the Corycian Cave, which lies within Parnassus National Park. It takes its name from the mythological Corycian nymphs and has been a sacred place of worship since the Neolithic era. Join a guided tour to admire its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations before continuing along one of the ancient trails that lead up the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
Getting around Delphi
Delphi is around two hours’ drive from Nea Anchialos National Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. The much larger Athens International Airport is 2.5 hours away. Regular buses connect to Delphi and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.