Archaeological ruins of Delphi – Greece :
Delphi lies between two towering rocks of Mt. Parnassus, known as the Phaidriades (Shining) Rocks, in the Regional unit of Phocis in Central Greece. Here lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Apollo, the Olympian god of light, knowledge and harmony. The area was inhabited in 2nd Millennium BC, as is evident from Mycenaean remains (1500-1100 BC). The development of the sanctuary and oracle began in 8th Century BC, and their religious and political influence over the whole of Greece increased in 6th Century BC. At the same time, their fame and prestige spread throughout the whole of the then known world, from which pilgrims came to the site to receive an oracle from the Pythia, the priestess of Apollo. A place with a rich intangible heritage, Delphi was the centre of the world (omphalos) in the eyes of ancient Greeks; according to myth, it was meeting point of two eagles released by Zeus, one to East and one in West. Magnificent monumental complex is a human-made environment in perfect harmony with rare natural environment, principal features of which gave rise to the organisation of the cults. This harmonious relationship, which has remained undisturbed from ancient times to present day, makes Delphi a unique monument and a priceless legacy bequeathed by ancient Greek world to following generations.
Layout of Delphi, a unique artistic achievement. Mt. Parnassus is a veritable masterpiece and is where a series of monuments were built whose modular elements – terraces, temples, treasuries, etc. – combine to form strong expression of the physical and moral values of a site which may be described as magical.
Delphi had an immense impact throughout the ancient world, as can be ascertained by the various offerings of kings, dynasts, city-states and historical figures, who deemed that sending a valuable gift to the sanctuary, would ensure favour of god. Sanctuary at Delphi, object of great generosity and crossroads of a wide variety of influences, was in turn imitated throughout ancient world. Its influence extended as far as Bactria, following the conquest of Asia by Alexander the Great. Even pillaging of the Sanctuary by emperor Nero and by Constantine the Great, who transported spoils from it to Rome and Constantinople, added to artistic influence of Delphi.
Delphi bears a unique testimony to religion and civilization of ancient Greece. At the legendary site where Apollo slew the serpent Python, celestial cults replaced chthonian cults and introduced old heritage of myths originating from primitive times. Delphic oracle, over which four sacred wars were fought, is one of the focal points of Greek political history, while the Theatre and the Stadium, where Pythian Games took place every four years, were places of community celebrations reflecting triumphant Hellenism.
Delphi, situated in a magnificent natural setting which is still intact, is an outstanding architectural ensemble and an example of a great Pan-Hellenic sanctuary. According to ancients, Temple of Apollo was where Omphalos was located, that is, navel of universe, the centre of the earth. Delphi is consequently directly and tangibly associated with a belief of manifest universal significance.
Monuments of the site meet the criteria of authenticity, since they have undergone mild interventions with absolute respect to material, form and design. These consist of relocating ancient architectural material in its original place or of restoring monuments by using mainly authentic material, in order to obtain their original plan. Furthermore, ancient building material was used for restoration of certain monuments and offerings of the site. Site still preserves authenticity of landscape. Modern visitors arriving along Holy Road from Roman Market up to stadium can perceive same feeling as person who visited area in antiquity.
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