Temple of Apollo: The Heart of Ancient Delphi

Explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, the heart of the ancient world, and discover the mysteries of the Oracle.

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Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo in Delphi was a sacred sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo, revered for archery, music, light, and prophecy. Established around the 8th century BCE, the temple was home to the famous Oracle of Delphi, where the priestess Pythia served as a conduit between the mortal world and the divine. The ruins visible today are from the 4th century BCE.

A brief summary to Temple of Apollo

Delphi 330 54, Delphi, 330 54, GR

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the Temple of Apollo is uneven and involves a relentless climb.
Bring water and wear a hat, as there is minimal shade on the site.
Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.

Getting There

Walking

From the entrance of the Delphi Archaeological Site, follow the Sacred Way uphill. The Temple of Apollo is approximately a fifth of a mile from the entrance. The path is a steady climb with uneven surfaces, so wear sturdy shoes. Along the way, you'll pass treasuries and monuments. The walk to the temple takes about 15-20 minutes.
Public Transport

From the Delphi bus station, walk towards the main road and turn left. Walk along the road for about 1 km (0.6 miles) to the entrance of the Delphi Archaeological Site. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Temple of Apollo. Bus fare from nearby towns such as Itea is around €2-€4.
Taxi

Taxis are available in the town of Delphi. A taxi from Delphi to the Temple of Apollo is a short ride. However, walking from the entrance of the archeological site is still required to reach the temple. A taxi from Delphi to Itea, which is about 15 km away, costs approximately €13-€16. There is no real parking lot at Delphi, and cars and buses park along the road.

Discover more about Temple of Apollo

Perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi stands as a testament to the spiritual and cultural significance it held in the ancient world. The temple was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music, archery, light, and prophecy. For centuries, it served as a major Panhellenic religious site, drawing visitors from across the Greek world seeking guidance from the Oracle of Delphi. The temple's history is rich and complex, with several iterations built over time. According to legend, the first temple was a simple hut made of laurel branches. Later structures were built of wax and bronze before the first archaeologically attested structure was erected in the 7th century BCE. This temple was destroyed by fire in 548 BCE. The Athenians rebuilt it in 510 BC. An earthquake destroyed this temple in 373 BCE. The ruins that visitors see today date back to the 4th century BCE, the result of a reconstruction completed around 330 BCE. Architects Spintharus, Xenodorus, and Agathon oversaw the construction. The Temple of Apollo was more than just a religious center; it was a repository of wisdom and knowledge. Carved into the temple were three famous phrases: "know thyself," "nothing in excess," and "make a pledge and mischief is nigh". The temple housed the statue of Apollo and the Omphalos, a stone representing the navel of the world. Today, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the ruins, wander the Sacred Way, and imagine the processions of ancient pilgrims who once sought the Oracle's counsel.

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Unmissable attractions to see

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Ancient Stadium of Delphi

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Delphi Archaeological Museum

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Explore the treasures of ancient Greece at the Delphi Archaeological Museum, where history and culture come alive through remarkable exhibits.

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Ancient Gymnasium of Delphi

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Temple of Apollo: The Heart of Ancient Delphi

A brief summary to Temple of Apollo

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi

Unlock the Best of Temple of Apollo

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Temple of Apollo

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pillar of Prusias II

Tripod of the Plataeans

European Cultural Centre of Delphi

Agia Varvara

Ancient Roman Sarcophagi Site

The Peak of Love

Κορυφή Βάκχου

Parnassus

Distomo Mausoleum

Σπήλαιο Οδυσσέα Ανδρούτσου

Gravia Inn

The Lion of Chaeronea

Στήλη των 300 Σπαρτιατών

Memorial to Leonidas and 300 Spartans

Historical Information Center for Thermopylae

Unmissable attractions to see

Delphi Archeological Site

The Athenian Treasury

The Ancient Theater of Delphi

The Sikyonian Treasury

Ancient Stadium of Delphi

Delphi Archaeological Museum

Castalia Spring

Ancient Gymnasium of Delphi

View point

Museum of Delphic Festivals

Delphi Flag Gallery

Tholos of Athena Pronaia

Orakel von Delphi

Treasury of the Massaliots

Πανόραμα Δελφικού τοπίου

Essential places to dine

Υδρία Δελφοί

In Delphi Restaurant

Souvlaki Gyros Pita

Tavern DION

Taberna Ta Skalakia

Delphinios Lounge

Delphikón

Apollon Cafe

Elia Restaurant Delphi

PHIVOS Restaurant - Εστιατόριο ΦΟΙΒΟΣ

Lefas Restaurant

Taverna Vakhos

Iniohos Taverna

L'Aurige Restaurant

To Kentrikon

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Delphi Museum Shop

Michailou

Amphora Ceramics Gift Shop #8

Poseidon Workshop

Zapf

Brands4u

Super Market Alex

KOUROS

Greek Spirit

DIONYSOS JEWELRY

Meandros Souvenir Shop

Jimmy’s antiques

EUNOIA ARACHOVA

TSELIOS FURS ARACHOVA

Indigo Store Arachova

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Αρχή Μονοπατιού

Rocky cafe and bar

Melopoleio