The Athenian Treasury
The Athenian Treasury: A Symbol of Athenian Power
Omphalos of Delphi: The Navel of the World
Discover the Omphalos of Delphi, the 'navel of the world,' and explore the captivating mythology of this ancient Greek landmark.
The Omphalos of Delphi, a marble monument at the Delphi archaeological site, symbolizes Delphi's significance as the 'navel of the Earth' in Ancient Greek mythology. According to myth, Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the world, and they met at Delphi, marking it as the center of the world. The sculpture on display may be a Hellenistic or Roman copy of the original.
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A brief summary to Γλυπτό Ομφαλός της Γης
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Athenian Treasury, Delphi, 330 54, GR
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Getting There
Walking
From the Delphi Archaeological Museum, exit and walk along the main path leading towards the Temple of Apollo. The Omphalos is located within the archaeological site, near the Athenian Treasury. Follow the signs within the site to reach the Treasury. Note that the ground within the site can be uneven.
Public Transport
If arriving by KTEL bus from Athens, the bus will drop you off in the modern town of Delphi. From the bus stop, walk along the main road towards the archaeological site (approximately 10-15 minutes). The Omphalos is located within the site, near the Athenian Treasury. Entrance fee to the archaeological site is €12. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for both the site and the museum.
Driving
If driving, park in the designated parking area near the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Parking is free but can be limited. From the parking area, walk towards the entrance of the archaeological site. The Omphalos is located within the site, near the Athenian Treasury. Entrance fee to the archaeological site is €12.
Local tips
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Visit early in the day, especially during summer, to avoid crowds and intense heat.
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The displayed Omphalos is a copy; the original was kept in the Temple of Apollo.
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Combine your visit with the Delphi Archaeological Museum to see the original Omphalos and other significant artifacts.
Discover more about Γλυπτό Ομφαλός της Γης
The Omphalos of Delphi stands as a powerful reminder of the ancient world's perception of Delphi as the center of the cosmos. In Greek, *omphalos* means 'navel,' and this sacred stone marked the spot where, according to legend, Zeus determined to be the Earth's midpoint. He did so by releasing two eagles from opposite ends of the world, and their paths intersected above Delphi.The Omphalos on display today is believed to be a copy of the original, which was housed inside the Temple of Apollo. The marble-carved stone features a knotted net carving covering its surface and a hollow center. It is thought that the original Omphalos was adorned with precious stones and covered by a mesh of wool cloth. Pausanias, a writer who traveled to Delphi in the 2nd century AD, described the stone as having gilded eagles fixed on top.The Omphalos also represents the stone that Rhea gave to Cronus wrapped in swaddling clothes to trick him into thinking it was Zeus, saving Zeus from being devoured by his father. The stone holds a place in mythology and symbolizes Apollo's capacity as the god of divination.
A brief summary to Γλυπτό Ομφαλός της Γης
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