Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Delphi with Family

Whispers of the Past

Today, Delphi unveiled more of its ancient secrets, inviting us to delve deeper into its mystical heart. From the purifying waters of Castalia Spring to the echoing depths of Corycian Cave, it was a day of exploration that resonated with the whispers of history and myth. It's amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small area, and I'm so glad I get to share it with Aoife and Liam.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Astra Cafe Restaurant. The warm Greek sun streamed through the windows as we enjoyed a delightful meal. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for the entire day, and Astra Cafe certainly delivered. The atmosphere was so inviting, and the food was delicious. I highly recommend their local pastries; they're the perfect way to start a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with breathtaking views at Astra Cafe Restaurant in Delphi – a perfect blend of taste and scenery.
Fueled up and ready to go, our first stop was the Castalia Spring. Legend has it that this spring was where visitors of the Oracle cleansed themselves before seeking Apollo's wisdom. As an antiques dealer, I'm naturally drawn to places steeped in history, and Castalia Spring certainly didn't disappoint. The air was filled with a sense of reverence, and I could almost imagine the ancient pilgrims preparing themselves for their encounter with the divine.


Experience the tranquility and historical significance of Castalia Spring, a sacred site in Delphi, Greece, known for its divine waters and natural beauty.
The spring itself is nestled in a ravine between two imposing cliffs. According to myth, this is where Apollo slew Python, the serpent guarding the spring. It's easy to see why this place was considered sacred. The water gurgles forth, and even in May, the air had a crisp coolness to it. We took our time here, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping a few photos. Liam was particularly fascinated by the ancient ruins surrounding the spring, and Aoife enjoyed the serene atmosphere. It was a moment of tranquility amidst our busy travel schedule.

To walk in the footsteps of those who sought guidance from the Oracle is to connect with a timeless quest for understanding and purpose.

Next on our itinerary was the Corycian Cave, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. The Corycian Cave has been a sacred space since the Neolithic era. More specifically it is named after the nymph Corycia; however, its name etymologically derives from korykos, knapsack. A modern name for the cave in some references is Sarantavli, meaning forty rooms because the cave has many caverns that go deep into Mt. Parnassus. We decided to drive partway and then hike the rest of the way, which proved to be quite an adventure. The trail wound through a lush fir forest, and the air was filled with the scent of pine. It was a welcome change from the bustling streets of Delphi, and we relished the opportunity to stretch our legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.


Discover the enchanting Corycian Cave in Delphi, a mythical site with stunning geological formations and rich history of ancient Greece.
The hike to the cave was moderately challenging, but the views along the way were well worth the effort. From certain vantage points, we could see the sprawling landscape of the Livadi Valley below. I can see why it was thought to be the divider between wilderness and culture. As we climbed higher, the temperature dropped, and we were grateful for our jackets. Liam, ever the energetic one, bounded ahead, eager to explore the cave. Aoife and I took a more leisurely pace, savoring the scenery and enjoying each other's company. I love these moments where we can connect with nature and each other, away from the distractions of modern life.

Finally, we reached the entrance to the Corycian Cave. The entrance to the Corycian Cave is hidden at the summit of Palaiovouna hill. The cave itself is shrouded in mystery and legend. It was once believed to be the home of the Corycian nymphs and a place of worship for Pan, the god of the wild. According to mythology, Zeus was even imprisoned here by the monster Typhon. Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by the coolness and darkness of the cave. The air was damp and heavy, and the silence was broken only by the sound of dripping water. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence as we explored its depths. The rock walls, sculpted by the waters reveal us fascinating figures such as the witch, the rabbit, the thinker.

We spent a good hour exploring the cave, marveling at the stalactites and stalagmites that adorned its interior. I tried to imagine what it must have been like for the ancient worshippers who came here to seek solace and guidance. The cave was used primarily as a place of worship for Pan, the god of the wild, as well as the Corycian nymphs, Zeus, and is also thought to be the ritual home of Dionysus. The Corycian Cave was also a place of refuge for the surrounding population during foreign invasions e.g. from the Persians in the 5th century BC, the Turks during the Greek War of Independence, and from the Germans in 1943. It's incredible to think that this cave has been a place of refuge and worship for thousands of years.

After our subterranean adventure, we made our way back to Delphi, feeling a sense of accomplishment and wonder. Before dinner, I popped into Jimmy’s Antiques. It's always a pleasure to browse through his collection of unique and eclectic items. I ended up buying a beautiful vintage map of the region, which I plan to add to my collection back in Dublin. It's amazing what treasures you can find in these small, local shops.


Discover unique vintage treasures and local crafts at Jimmy's Antiques in scenic Delphi, Greece – a perfect blend of history and artistry.
For lunch, we dined at Elia Restaurant Delphi, which boasts a beautiful open veranda with views to the valley and the sea. I enjoyed tasty salads, local homemade dishes and desserts. The Greek traditional dishes had a flavor of the Mediterranean cuisine, offering a unique gastronomic experience. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the food was simply divine. I highly recommend trying their moussaka; it's a true taste of Greece. It's always a joy to discover hidden culinary gems like this one.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Elia Restaurant in Delphi—where every meal is a celebration of Mediterranean culture and tradition.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to OMFALOS for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable. I ordered the lamb chops, which were cooked to perfection. Aoife had the moussaka, and Liam opted for the souvlaki. We all agreed that it was one of the best meals we've had so far on our trip. It's these simple, authentic experiences that make traveling so rewarding.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Omfalos in Arachova - a perfect blend of tradition and breathtaking mountain views.
Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the rich history and mythology that permeates every corner of Delphi. It's a place where the past comes alive, and where you can't help but feel a connection to the ancient world. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Holy Monastery of Hosios Loukas and Krya Park, continuing our exploration of this fascinating region. I'm eager to see what other treasures and experiences await us. Hopefully I will remember to pack my sunglasses and portable phone charger this time.

Before retiring for the night, I took a moment to review the photos I had taken throughout the day. Each image captured a piece of the story, a memory to be cherished. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's these moments that make life truly special.

I am looking forward to tomorrow, when we visit the Holy Monastery of Hosios Loukas and Krya Park. Before that, we'll have breakfast at Agora Cafe, then lunch at Souvlaki Gyros Pita, and dinner at PHIVOS Restaurant. Liam has also expressed an interest in visiting Miami Lounge Bar, so we will see if we can fit that in.

It's been a long but fulfilling day and I can't wait for what tomorrow will bring.