Exploring the Ancient Charms of Delphi with Aoife

Chariots of Champions & Treasures of the Spirit

Today in Delphi was a day of contrasts, blending the raw energy of ancient athletics with the quiet allure of modern craftsmanship. Aoife and I started our day immersed in the echoes of the past, and ended it with our arms full of memories and mementos. It's funny how places can hold so much, whispering stories if you just take the time to listen.

Our day began, as most do here, with a hearty breakfast at the Amalia Hotel Delphi Restaurant. Fuelled up, we set off to conquer the Ancient Stadium of Delphi.


Explore the Ancient Stadium of Delphi, a remarkable historical landmark in Greece, and immerse yourself in the legacy of ancient athletic competitions.

It was a bit of a climb, I won’t lie, especially in this July heat, but the sense of anticipation kept us going. I could almost hear the roar of the crowds and the pounding of feet on the track as we approached. Aoife, ever the librarian, was particularly excited, imagining the athletes of old striving for glory.

Stepping into the stadium was like stepping back in time. The stadium, perched high above the Sanctuary of Apollo, offered breathtaking views of the Delphic landscape. It’s amazing to think that this is the best-preserved ancient stadium in Greece. I could almost picture the athletes competing in the Pythian Games, the air thick with anticipation and the thrill of competition. The stadium itself is a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Greeks, built into the natural slope of the mountain. The track, though weathered by time, still felt palpable beneath my feet.

Aoife read aloud from our guidebook, detailing the stadium's history – how it was built in the 4th century BC and could hold up to 6,500 spectators. We walked along the stone tiers, imagining the crowds cheering on their favorite athletes. I tried to picture what it must have been like to compete here, the pressure, the glory, the sheer physical exertion. It was humbling to stand in a place where so much history had unfolded.

To truly understand a place, you must walk in the footsteps of those who came before you.

After soaking in the atmosphere of the stadium, we made our way to the Pavilion.


Discover the enchanting Pavillion in Delphi, a serene entryway to Greece's ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes.

The Pikionis Pavilion, constructed in 1959, offered a modern contrast to the ancient stadium. Made of stone with bas-reliefs, it was once a popular spot for famous figures like Maria Callas and Jackie Kennedy. Although deserted for a time, it has been renovated and now serves as a global center for circular economy and culture. It’s amazing how Delphi manages to blend the ancient with the modern, creating a unique and compelling experience.

We spent some time at the Pavilion, enjoying the panoramic views and reflecting on the day so far. It was a welcome respite from the sun, and a chance to catch our breath before the next adventure. Aoife was particularly taken with the architecture, admiring how the Pavilion seamlessly integrated into the surrounding landscape.

From the heights of athleticism and architectural serenity, we descended into the heart of Delphi town for lunch. Taverna Gargadoyas beckoned with promises of authentic Greek cuisine, and it did not disappoint.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Taverna Gargadoyas in Delphi – a culinary delight steeped in tradition and warmth.

The owner and his wife welcomed us with open arms, and we soon felt like regulars. We ordered the moussaka and a Greek salad, both bursting with fresh, local flavors. It was the perfect fuel for the afternoon's activities.

The Taverna was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the traditional dishes. We chatted with a couple from Germany who were also on a historical tour of Greece. They shared their experiences of visiting Olympia and Mycenae, and we exchanged travel tips and recommendations. It’s always a pleasure to connect with fellow travelers and share our passion for history and culture.

After lunch, we ventured into the Greek Spirit shop, eager to find a memento of our time in Delphi.


Discover unique Greek-inspired clothing at Greek Spirit in Delphi, where culture meets style in a charming shopping experience.

The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs, from intricate replicas of ancient artifacts to handmade jewelry and pottery. I was on the hunt for a vintage map of the region, while Aoife was drawn to the delicate, hand-painted ceramics.

The shopkeeper, a friendly local with a wealth of knowledge about the region's history, regaled us with stories of Delphi's past. He showed us a replica of the Omphalos, the navel stone, which marked Delphi as the center of the ancient world. It was fascinating to learn about the significance of this artifact and its connection to the Oracle of Delphi.

I eventually found a beautiful vintage map of Delphi and the surrounding area, its faded colors hinting at a rich history. Aoife settled on a set of hand-painted ceramic bowls, each depicting scenes from Greek mythology. We left the shop with our arms full of treasures, eager to take a piece of Delphi home with us.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurant Scala for dinner.


Experience the essence of Greek cuisine at Restaurant Scala in Itea – where every meal tells a story.

The restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. We ordered fresh seafood and local wine, savoring the flavors of Greece as we watched the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors.

The seafood was cooked to perfection, and the wine was a delightful complement to the meal. We toasted to our adventures in Delphi, grateful for the opportunity to experience this magical place together. The staff at Restaurant Scala were attentive and friendly, making us feel like honored guests.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Delphi had to offer. From the ancient stadium to the modern Pavilion, from the bustling tavernas to the charming shops, every corner of this town held a story waiting to be discovered. Aoife and I had immersed ourselves in the history, culture, and cuisine of Delphi, and we were leaving with memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we're venturing further afield to Parnassos Experience and the Holy Monastery of Hosios Loukas, and perhaps finishing the day with a relaxing drink at Rocky cafe and bar. Until then, goodnight from Delphi!

I must remember to buy sunglasses tomorrow, I seem to have forgotten them. And maybe a travel umbrella too, just in case the weather changes.

It strikes me that this trip, much like my work back in Dublin dealing with antiques, is about connecting with the past. Each artifact, each ruin, each story, is a piece of a puzzle that helps us understand who we are and where we come from. And sharing these experiences with Aoife makes it all the more special. It's a reminder that life, like a good antique, gets better with age and a little bit of careful exploration. Perhaps that's what the Oracle would have told me, if I'd had the chance to ask.