Delphi: The Navel of the Ancient World

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Τι κάνετε;
  [Ti kanete?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Πήγαινε μακριά!
  [Pigaine makria!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meiosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Η μισή (10)
  [I misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/μια/το...;
  [Pou ine enas/mia/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για το....);
  [Ena isitirio (gia to....)?]

Delphi, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, was once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology. According to legend, Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the world, and they met at Delphi, designating it as the navel of the Earth. The area was originally settled in the Mycenaean period (1600-1100 BC) and later became a significant religious and cultural center.

One of the most famous aspects of Delphi is its oracle, known as the Pythia. The Pythia was a high priestess who served as the mouthpiece of the god Apollo. Individuals from all over the ancient world, from commoners to kings, traveled to Delphi to seek her prophecies. The oracle's pronouncements were often cryptic and interpreted by priests, influencing major decisions throughout the ancient Greek world.

In addition to its religious significance, Delphi was also known for the Pythian Games, held every four years in honor of Apollo. These games were second only to the Olympics in prestige and included musical, literary, and athletic competitions. Participants from across the Greek world came to compete, showcasing their talents and strengthening cultural ties.

The heart of Delphi is the Sanctuary of Apollo, a complex of buildings, including the famous Temple of Apollo. This temple housed the omphalos stone, which symbolized the center of the world. The sanctuary also contained treasuries, where various city-states stored valuable offerings, and the sacred way, a path lined with statues and monuments leading to the temple.

One of the most notable structures within the Sanctuary of Apollo is the Treasury of the Athenians. Built around 490 BC, it was constructed to commemorate the Athenian victory at the Battle of Marathon. The treasury was filled with offerings to Apollo, symbolizing the city's gratitude and piety.

The Delphic Maxims are a set of moral precepts that were inscribed at the Temple of Apollo. These maxims, such as 'Know thyself' and 'Nothing in excess,' were considered fundamental principles for leading a virtuous life. They reflect the philosophical and ethical teachings that were integral to the culture of Delphi.

Throughout its history, Delphi faced several invasions and sacking attempts. One of the most significant occurred in 279 BC when a coalition of Greek tribes successfully defended the sanctuary against a Gallic invasion. This event reinforced Delphi's reputation as a sacred and protected place.

Delphi came under Roman control in the 2nd century BC, yet its religious significance remained intact. The Romans were keen to preserve and even enhance the site. Emperors such as Hadrian and Nero visited Delphi, and several restoration projects were undertaken to maintain its grandeur.

The rise of Christianity in the late Roman Empire marked the beginning of Delphi's decline. The oracle's influence waned, and many of the temples and buildings fell into disrepair. By the 4th century AD, the Christian emperor Theodosius I ordered the closure of pagan temples, including those at Delphi, signaling the end of its ancient religious role.

Rediscovered in the 19th century, Delphi has since become a major archaeological site and tourist destination. Excavations have unearthed significant artifacts, shedding light on its ancient past. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, the theater, and the stadium, gaining a deeper understanding of its historical and cultural legacy.

Delphi is located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in central Greece. The nearest major city is Athens, which has an international airport, Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH). From Athens, you can take a bus from the KTEL bus station, which takes about 3 hours to reach Delphi. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which also takes around 2.5 to 3 hours via the E75 highway. There are no direct trains to Delphi, but you can take a train to nearby cities like Levadia and then continue by bus or taxi.

Delphi is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For those who prefer not to walk, local taxis are available. There are also bus services that connect Delphi to surrounding towns and villages. Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the broader region of Phocis. Parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons, so plan accordingly.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops within Delphi. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in case you visit rural areas where card payment may not be an option. There are ATMs available in Delphi, but it’s a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash in Athens before your trip, just in case.

Delphi is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. Delphi does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European Union emergency number. Delphi has a local police station and medical facilities, including a small health center. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking, especially in archaeological sites. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in more formal restaurants. Religion: Do show respect when visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries. Wear modest clothing and avoid loud behavior. Public Transport: Do be respectful on public transport. Avoid eating or drinking, and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Kalimera' (Good Morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good Evening). A handshake is usually appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't leave a tip on the table; instead, hand it directly to the service staff.

To experience Delphi like a local, visit the town early in the morning before the tourist crowds arrive. Engage with local shop owners and artisans; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's rich history. Don't miss the chance to hike the trails on Mount Parnassus for breathtaking views. For a unique gastronomic experience, try the locally produced olive oil and honey. Visit during local festivals to enjoy traditional music, dance, and food.