Finding the Oracle in Delphi

Ancient Greeks considered Delphi to be the center of the world.

Zeus set out to determine the center of his “Grandmother Earth” (Gaia). He began by releasing two eagles. One flew from the eastern hemisphere and one from the western hemisphere. When the paths crossed over Delphi, Zeus declared it to be the naval of Gaia (earth).

Standing on the mountainside enjoying the views offered by Delphi, you certainly get the feeling you are standing at the center of the world.

Random Facts About Delphi

• Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its influence in the ancient world.
• Also called Python after the dragon who guarded the area for Gaia. Apollo killed the dragon (according to Greek mythology) and that led to his worship in the area.
• Starting in 586 BC athletes from all over the Greek world competed in the Pythian Games every four years. It was a precursor to the modern Olympics.
• Home to the Oracle of Delphi

As you head through the town to the archeological site, you will see the Castalian Spring. The spring offered Delphi visitors a place to refresh before consulting the Oracle. Roman poets felt like the spring offered inspiration. It was here that Apollo killed the dragon, Python. The water from Castalian Spring still feeds the fountain at the entrance of the area (near the street).

According to our guide, the spring holds magic-making those who drink from it find their love soon after. While we listened to her stories a local drove up to fill his bottle. He jumped out of his car with several bottles and his pants undone. Seeming not to care about the pants situation he filled his bottles and was on his way. No word on if he has found love, but we filled our bottles with the fresh spring water and started the hike to the ruins.

Entering the area you immediately feel the history. It is a familiar and welcome feeling after a few days in Greece. This time there is not a city built around an ancient gathering place. This time it is ancient ruins on a beautiful hillside making it feel even more authentic to its time.

The first notable area you will come to is the Roman Agora at the entrance of the Sacred Way. The area was “remodeled” when the Romans took control of Delphi. It became known as the Roman Agora at that time due to the Roman appearance of the buildings. It was the first stop along the Sacred Way where the temple visitors purchased their offerings.

We climbed the mountain passing the ruins of many treasuries. A well-preserved building loomed over us as we climbed until we arrived at the Treasury of Athens. The thick walls have withstood centuries of elements with little restoration. The treasury stands at 10 x 6 meters to hold the offerings to the Delphi oracle.

Climb some more. (See the theme) The existing columns and flooring for the Temple of Apollo are the next imposing ruin. First built in the 7th century BC the structure withstood a fire in the 6th century BC and was rebuilt.  At that time it was renamed the Temple of Alcmeonidae in a tribute to the Athenian family who oversaw its construction. The temple was of the Doric order with six columns at the front and 15 columns on each side. Destroyed by an earthquake in 373 BC it was rebuilt for a third time in 330 BC to be similar to the Alcmeonidae version.

Today the Doric column columns remain. The temple was accessed by a ramp (because why not climb a little more). Parian marble sculptures depicted the epiphany of Apollo, Dionysus, and Maenads. According to ancient sources, the maxims of the Seven Sages were carved at the entrance.

“Know thyself” – maxims of the Seven Sages

The building housed works of art giving it a dual role of temple and museum. The oracle sat atop the Tripod of Plataea above the Chasm of Ghes. The cleft in the earth emanated vapors that inebriated the prophetess. In this trance-like state, she channeled Apollo. Consultations with the oracle could not happen in the winter months. During the winter months Apollo lived among Hyperboreans. Dionysus would inhabit the temple during his absence.

The temple is about the halfway mark to the top (and the stadium). As we continued, we took a moment at the theater. Having worked a few concerts in my life in some great venues, I have to say this one was amazing! The 35 rows of seating can accommodate around five thousand spectators. The views of the surrounding valley must have amplified the beauty of the performer’s work.

Trekking further up the mountain we arrive at the stadium nestled between two small hills. Its last “remodel” was in the 2nd century AD when Herodus Atticus financed an arched entry and stone seating (6500 spectators).  Used for the Pythian and Panhellenic games and music festivals it is clear Ancient Greeks loved their entertainment.

(Tip make sure you turn around to enjoy the view of the ruins and the valley.)

Descending the mountain to street level is the Archeological Museum of Delphi. It is within these walls you can view the extensive artifacts unearthed here. The permanent exhibit covers more than a thousand years from the Mycenaean era to Greco-Roman times. It is a must-see museum while visiting Greece!

The views while standing in such historic ruins were incredible! The entire atmosphere transports you back to ancient times. It was standing on that mountainside when I got the idea for this site. Maybe it was the Oracle… 🤷🏼‍♀️

Angela M DiLoreto

The stadium at Delphi is such an incredible sight. From the construction to the fact that it is positioned against the mountain, and the view that any spectator has to overlook the valley below. Additionally, far below and across the main road is the practice stadium and dormitory for the athletes. It almost made me want to run a race! I said almost, as I got winded just climbing the steep walk to the stadium.

Vince DiLoreto

Getting to Delphi

Delphi is a couple of hours drive from Athens leaving many to take a day trip. But if you want a full Oracle of Delphi experience the magic is in the sunrise and sunset so grab a hotel for the night.

Tips for your Delphi Trip

• Fill your bottle at the Castalian Spring fountain. We were told the water is safe and had no issues.
• While filling your bottle turn around. Look across the road and down the hillside. You will see more ruins and a 1,000-year-old olive tree.
• The Charioteer statue is inside the museum (near the end).
• Hike to the top. Plan for it. Take water. Take your time if you need it. The views and archeological ruins are well worth it!
• In the town of Delphi, you will find a beautiful church (Haigos Nikolaos) and some small shops with work from the local art students.