Delphi

Delphi

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Overview of the ancient temple, and land below.

The land of oracles, and professes. Delphi held such a vital importance to the ancients. Decisions of the upmost importance would not be made before the oracle had a comment. These matters would include issues such as if one city-state should go to war with another, political strategies, which important noble should be married, and of course future readings.

Delphi held such an importance that people would come from far away by ship to land in the harbor nearby to seek advice. Today, this once vital and spiritual location, still holds some of the secrets it once held. However, much has been revealed and is now on display at the museum.

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The great winged sphinx still guards today within the museum.

From the museum, visit the great winged sphinx, the charioteer, and weapons. Find painted marble, containers, gifts from ancient treasuries that had been once buried by priests, and more. Some of these buried treasures included a life size metal bull, jewelry, and offering statues. This site has had many legends, and has been described as the center of the world.

After the museum, walk a short way to visit the actual site. While walking up, pass along the same pathway the ancients walked to seek advice. Pass along stalls that once sold goods to travelers or keepsakes or offerings, and pass each of the city-state treasuries. These once stored the offerings that people would bring for good news. The only one that is standing the most in contact is the city-state of Athens. It’s made of marble and gives a great idea of how each of these once stood. Next to this treasury, stands the Omphalos Stone, or the Navel of the World, which held the power for direct communication to the gods. Continue on the path a little further, and the mighty temple which house the oracle stands before your eyes; you can even see the inner most chamber where she once stood. This site has so much more like an amutheater, smaller temple, and location for similar games held at the Olympics.