Exploring the Ancient Charms of Delphi with Aoife

Echoes of the Past

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at the Amalia Hotel Delphi Restaurant. I must say, their breakfast spread has become a comforting ritual. 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 the Amalia Hotel certainly delivers. After fuelling up, we set off to explore 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.

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 the July heat, the air had a crisp coolness to it. We took our time here, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping a few photos. I even tried to imagine what treasures might have been left as offerings in the cavities of the rock face.

According to Euripides' play Ion, visitors of the oracle would ritually cleanse themselves here, washing their hair, or if they were murderers, their entire bodies. The water was also used to sprinkle the temple of Apollo. Pausanias even claimed the water had a delicious taste. I resisted the urge to sample it myself, remembering my forgotten travel umbrella and not wanting to tempt fate further!

From the Castalia Spring, we ventured onward to the Corycian Cave. The Corycian Cave is a bit of a trek, but the views along the way are well worth the effort. The trail winds 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.

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.

The entrance to the Corycian Cave is hidden at the summit of Palaiovouna hill. 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.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest of places.

The cave has been a sacred space since the Neolithic era, and its name comes from the mythological nature spirits the Corycian nymphs. It 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.

I tried to imagine what it must have been like to seek shelter here, the darkness and silence amplifying the fear and uncertainty of the times. It's humbling to stand in a place that has witnessed so much history, so much human experience.

After our subterranean adventure, we made our way back to Delphi, feeling a sense of accomplishment and wonder. All that walking certainly built up an appetite! We decided to try Elia Restaurant Delphi for lunch. I had heard good things about their traditional Greek dishes, and Aoife was keen to sample some local wine.

Elia Restaurant is conveniently located near the Delphi Archaeological Museum. We enjoyed a delicious Greek salad, orzo pasta, and жареный барашек (roasted lamb) with a glass of local white wine. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was relaxed, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We sat outside, enjoying the beautiful decor and lovely atmosphere.

In the late afternoon, we decided to stop by Astra Cafe Restaurant for a drink and to enjoy the views. The cafe transforms from a laid-back cafe during the day to a lively disco-bar at night. It offers stunning views of the gulf and valley. We enjoyed a cappuccino and soaked in the calm atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose L'Aurige Restaurant. We were so impressed by their vegan menu and by how tasty the vegan food was! Aoife got the vegan moussaka, and I got the vegan kebab and vegan tzatziki which is made by avocados. All were delicious. At the end, they offered us a homemade cherry liqueur.

L'Aurige Restaurant captures the essence of local flavors, providing an authentic dining experience that reflects the heritage and culture of Greece. The restaurant's strategic location makes it an ideal stop for tourists exploring Delphi's ancient sites. With attentive service and a cozy ambiance, L'Aurige Restaurant promises not just a meal but a memorable culinary journey that connects visitors to Greece's rich traditions.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the mountains, we reflected on our day. Delphi had once again captivated us with its beauty and history. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Ancient Stadium of Delphi and the Pavilion. I'm particularly excited to see the stadium, as I've always been fascinated by the athletic achievements of the ancient Greeks. Until then, goodnight from Delphi.

P.S. I also did some research on local events, but it seems quiet in Delphi at the moment. There are some festivals in other parts of Indiana, but nothing nearby. I'll keep an eye out for any happenings in the area.