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The Sikyonian Treasury: A Glimpse into Ancient Sicyon

Discover the legacy of ancient Sicyon at Delphi's Sikyonian Treasury, a monument of art and power in the heart of the Sanctuary of Apollo.

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The Sikyonian Treasury in Delphi, built in the 6th century BC, stands as a testament to the power and artistry of the ancient city of Sicyon. Replacing earlier structures, it served as a repository for votive offerings and a symbol of Sicyonian influence within the sacred sanctuary of Apollo.

A brief summary to The Sikyonian Treasury

  • Θησαυρός των Αθηναίων, Delphi, 330 54, GR
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Local tips

  • Visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum to see the metopes from the earlier Sicyonian Monopteros, providing context to the Treasury's history.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season, and to fully appreciate the tranquility of the Delphi archaeological site.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions within the Delphi archaeological site for a comprehensive experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the entrance to the Delphi Archaeological Site, follow the main path uphill towards the Temple of Apollo. Continue past the Temple, bearing right towards the Sacred Way. The Sikyonian Treasury is located on the left side of the Sacred Way, a short distance from the Temple.

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Discover more about The Sikyonian Treasury

The Sikyonian Treasury, located within the Sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi, offers a fascinating insight into the history and artistic prowess of the ancient city of Sicyon. This treasury wasn't just a storehouse for valuable offerings; it was a statement of Sicyonian identity and influence in one of the most important religious centers in ancient Greece. The treasury's story is complex, involving multiple building phases. The final structure replaced two earlier monuments: a 'tholos' (circular building) and a 'monopteros' (an open, colonnaded structure). These earlier buildings were linked to the Orthagorid dynasty and, in particular, to the victories of Cleisthenes of Sicyon during the First Sacred War. The replacement of these structures likely reflected a shift in Sicyonian politics. The treasury itself was constructed in the Doric order, featuring a vestibule and cella. Its facade was adorned with metopes, sculpted panels depicting scenes from mythology that held special significance for the city of Sicyon. These sculptures, crafted from limestone, showcased stories such as the Dioscuri twins, the Calydonian Boar hunt, the abduction of Europa by Zeus, and Jason's voyage on the Argo. Architectural elements from the earlier structures were incorporated into the foundations of the treasury. Visiting the site today, one can appreciate the strategic placement of the treasury, visible from the entrance to the Sanctuary of Apollo. While only remnants of the treasury remain, the nearby Delphi Archaeological Museum houses significant artifacts, including metopes from the earlier monopteros, offering a tangible connection to Sicyonian artistry.

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