The Sikyonian Treasury: A Glimpse into Ancient Sicyon

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Explore the Sikyonian Treasury in Delphi, a historical landmark showcasing ancient Sicyon's wealth, artistry, and devotion to Apollo in the 6th century BC.

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The Sikyonian Treasury

The Sikyonian Treasury, located in the Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi, is an ancient structure with a complex history, dating back to the 6th century BC. It replaced earlier buildings erected by the city of Sicyon and stands as a testament to the city's power and artistic innovation.

A brief summary to The Sikyonian Treasury

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

Wear comfortable shoes as the Delphi archaeological site involves a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months, as the site offers limited shade.
Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
Allow ample time to explore the entire Delphi archaeological site, including the museum, to fully appreciate its history and significance.
Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Delphi Archaeological Museum, walk southeast on Leoforos Amfissas towards the archaeological site entrance. Enter the site and follow the main path uphill for approximately 500 meters until you reach the Temple of Apollo. From there, proceed to the right towards the Sacred Way. Continue along the Sacred Way, where you will see various ancient treasuries. The Sikyonian Treasury is located on your left after a short walk, marked by its distinctive architectural features.
Public Transport

Delphi is accessible by KTEL bus from Athens. From the Delphi bus station, walk towards the main road and follow the signs to the Delphi Archaeological Site. Enter the site and follow the main path uphill for approximately 500 meters until you reach the Temple of Apollo. From there, proceed to the right towards the Sacred Way. Continue along the Sacred Way, where you will see various ancient treasuries. The Sikyonian Treasury is located on your left after a short walk, marked by its distinctive architectural features. Bus tickets from Athens to Delphi cost approximately €13-€16 one way.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Delphi. From the town center, a taxi can take you to the entrance of the Delphi Archaeological Site. Enter the site and follow the main path uphill for approximately 500 meters until you reach the Temple of Apollo. From there, proceed to the right towards the Sacred Way. Continue along the Sacred Way, where you will see various ancient treasuries. The Sikyonian Treasury is located on your left after a short walk. A short taxi ride within Delphi will likely cost around €5-€10.

Discover more about The Sikyonian Treasury

The Sikyonian Treasury is a significant historical landmark within the Sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi. This treasury wasn't just a single structure, but rather the culmination of three distinct building phases dating back to the 6th century BC. The earliest phase includes the Tholos, dating back to around 580 BC, attributed to Cleisthenes, the tyrant of Sicyon, after the First Sacred War. This circular building featured a colonnade of 13 Doric columns.Next came the Monopteros, around 560 BC, which consisted of 14 columns supporting a roof, adorned with reliefs depicting mythological scenes. Finally, the treasury itself, constructed around 525 BC, was a Doric-style building with a vestibule and cella. It was strategically placed to be visible from the sanctuary entrance. The treasury served as a repository for offerings and treasures, showcasing Sicyon's wealth and devotion to Apollo.Sicyon, near Corinth, was known for its innovative sculpture and limestone quarries, making the treasury a showcase of the city's artistic prowess. The treasury's metopes, crafted from fine limestone, depicted scenes from mythology, reflecting the cultural values of the time. Today, the Sikyonian Treasury offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient world, allowing them to appreciate the architecture, artistry, and historical context of this remarkable site.