Temple of Apollo at Delphi- A Panoramic Ancient Site of Greece

Most of the time people connect Greece with its stunning beaches and island, especially that Santorini which is popular for an exquisite vacation and intricate ancient temples and various UNESCO World Heritage sites. But what really makes Greece this much renowned all over the world is ancient ruins and fabulous historic architecture. Some best examples of the architectural brilliance in Greece include the Acropolis in Athens, Temple of Apollo at Delphi and the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.

In our previous blog we've already discussed The Acropolis of Athens and The Theatre of Epidaurus: For reading more visit— Interesting Facts About Acropolis & Parthenon of Athens – Greece. Momentarily we will explore about the mythical temple of Apollo which is located in Delphi.

Quick Outline of Delphi

For the Greeks, Delphi was considered the centre of the world. At Delphi, there was a major ancient Greek temple that was dedicated to the Apollo god. This temple is located on Mt. Parnassus, near the Gulf of Corinth and was home to the famous oracle of Apollo, which provided cryptical prophecy and advice to both city-states and individuals.

Delphi is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Delphi was also known as the centre of the world because of its two eagles, one eastward and the other westward in the Greek mythology, which Zeus published, and Delphi was the place they reached after surrounding the earth.

The Temple of Apollo

Delphi's central and most significant part was Apollo's temple, where the Pythia delivered her prophetic words in the 'Adyton,' which was a separate and reserved space. The Temple of Apollo is supported by a huge wall built from limestone polygonal, known as the Ischegaon. It is believed that in the sixth century BC, Earth was carried from the Parnassus Valley to create it.

The Apollo Temple at Delphi is worth a special journey. It is the core of a sacred massive site, with plenty to discover and learn around. This is where the statues and other offerings to the god were stored, and where rituals of worship, including that of divination, were performed. There are approximately 800 inscriptions on the walls of Apollo's temple.

History of the Temple

According to the history, Apollo's first temple at Delphi consisted of branches of laurel, the second of beeswax and feathers, and a third of bronze, while the fourth was designed by the legendary architects Trophonius and Agamedes, under the guidance Apollo. This was the temple of stone which was partially destroyed by fire in 548 BC. Its reconstruction was done with the help of both Greeks and non-Greeks and was completed by the Alcmaeonid family of Athens around 510 BC.

The Oracle of Apollo

The oracle of Apollo at Delphi was famed throughout the Greek world and even beyond. The oracle - the Pythia or priestess - would answer questions asked by visitors and want some guidance in their future actions. The popularity of the Delphi Oracle was at its peak between the 6th and 4th centuries B.C. Rulers and common people both seeking consultation with the Pythia. After getting answers, pilgrims offer their gratitude with extravagant gifts and offerings. Thus this increased demand for the oracle's services.