Delphi is the most popular archaeological site in Greece. Located 180 kilometers from Athens, a trip to Delphi is listed in just about every tour itinerary and is by far the most popular day trip out of Athens.
The oracle of Delphi was a spiritual experience whereby the spirit of Apollo
was asked for advice on critical matters relating to people's lives or affairs
of the state. Questions were asked to the Pythia, or priestess who 'channeled'
the spirit of the God, in the same way that people now channel Jesus or the
various other disembodied spirits who have not only helped people with their
advice but kept their channelers on the tops of the best seller lists. Whether
one believes in the channeling of Gods or spirits is an individual thing.
But even the most skeptical person must realize that there was something 'magical'
going on in Delhi for several thousand years and the fact that the town still
attracts a million visitors a year makes me believe some of that magic is
still there.
There are numerous beaches and coves along the coast below Delphi and heading
west towards Nafpaktos. Kira was the ancient port of Delphi and has a decent
beach and two campsites. Galaxidi(photo) was a 19th century ship building
center, has a number of hotels and a naval museum. There is an old castle,
a 13th century monastery and many old mansions. It is one of the most beautiful
towns on the gulf of Corinth and well worth a stop for lunch or to visit the
ducks who have a floating apartment building in the middle of the harbor.
You may even want to spend a day or so here.
Many people who come to Delphi claim they have felt 'something'. I suppose
it depends on your receptivity and your belief system. But there are those
who believe that the spirit of Apollo still resides in Delphi and just as
he was thousands of years ago, he is still available now, to answer questions
and give personal advice or affairs of the state. One might keep in mind that
a visit to Delphi is also on the itinerary of visiting dignitaries and the
list of Greek politicians who have not visited the sacred oracle would be
a short one. Just food for thought, but visiting Delphi with an open mind
may be an enriching experience.
Heraklion
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