When exploring a country Ancient Greeks as steeped in history as Greece, ancient ruins can sometimes become overwhelming and lose their allure. Not every BC relic warrants a visit. Selectivity in ancient sightseeing is key. Three Greek sites that stand out for a contemplative exploration of ruins are Delphi, Epidavros, and Mycenae. Conveniently located within three hours of Athens, each is a trek well worth taking.
Perched on the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, Delphi, pronounced dell-FEE, held immense significance in the ancient world. Pilgrims flocked here seeking wisdom from the oracle, the earthly conduit of Apollo. By the sixth century BC, Delphi’s influence was so profound that major leaders sought counsel before pivotal decisions. Delphi became a repository of ancient world insights, and the priestly interpreters gleaned divine-quality advice from the oracle’s riddles.
Ancient Greeks
The archaeological site, situated a half-mile east of modern Delphi, features the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo, where the oracle prophesied. Exploring the temple’s surroundings reveals monuments erected by grateful pilgrims. Beyond the oracle’s domain, the theater and stadium, hosting the Pythian Games in Apollo’s honor, offer a glimpse into ancient festivities. Late-day visits, free from the crowds, immerse you in the echoes of ancient cheers.
Epidavros, a must-visit northeast of the Peloponnesian Peninsula, near Nafplio, boasts a healing center from 400 BC. Miraculous cures were attributed to doctor-priests serving Asklepios, the god of medicine. Epidavros’ highlight is its theater, accommodating up to 14,000 spectators with flawless acoustics. Seated in the farthest corner, you can almost hear the ancient crowds and feel the resonance of performances.
About 25 minutes north of Nafplio lies ancient Mycenae, dating back to 1600-1200 BC. The Mycenaeans, depicted in Homer’s epics, strategically positioned their heavily fortified capital on a defensible hill. The city’s remnants include the imposing Lion Gate entrance and tholos tombs, such as the Treasury of Atreus. These beehive-shaped chambers, housing royal burials and treasures, echo the grandeur of Mycenaean civilization, which predates Athens by a millennium. The site’s majestic setting, coupled with its historical significance, renders Mycenae a captivating journey into Greece’s ancient past.
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