Archaeologous is adding a tour to Delphi
Archaeologous has just added a new tour to Delphi (Greece) which is not only one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, but it is what everyone thinks of when you say the word Oracle. The Oracle of Delphi was the 'go to' place that influenced affairs in the known world for over a thousand years. Today, you can go on a delightful day tour of this amazing sacred location and marvel at the Delphi museum with its' brilliant archaeological treasures.
Bet you never thought you'd be able to stand at the, "naval of the world". In Greek mythology, Zeus sent out two eagles from the ends of the universe to find the centre of the world. They met here. For many centuries the cultural and religious centre was the sanctuary of Delphi. You walk on sacred ground when here at the past "sacred spot of worship for "Mother Earth".
The earliest history of the area dates back to the Neolithic period (4,000 BC) where remains of a Mycenaean settlement and cemetery were discovered. Most of the history we know comes from the eighth century when the cult of Apollo was established and the oracle began. . The gods associated with the sanctuary were: Poseidon, Artemis, Dionysus, Hermes, Zeus Polieus, Hygeia and Eileithyia.
Apparently, by the gifts and fame that spread around the world, the oracle was regarded as the most trustworthy at it's peak between the sixth and fourth centuries BC. The rise of the Rationalist movement in philosophy in the third century BC damaged the Oracles' authority, yet it's rituals apparently continued unchanged into the second century AD,
Archaeological research began in Delphi in 1860 by German archaeologogist, and by 1891 the village of Kastri which had been built on top of the delphi area was removed. The “Great Excavation' as it was called was then able to take
place. Spectacular remains, including 3,000 inscriptions of public life, as well as statues and monuments were saved. The Chiot altar, the temple of Apollo and the
Tholos were also partially restored. Add this tour to your itinerary and truly be amongst one of the most historically and influential places on the face of the earth.
