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The Avenue of Lions: Guardians of Ancient Delos

Walk among the iconic marble lions on Delos, ancient guardians of Apollo's birthplace and a testament to Cycladic artistry.

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The Avenue of Lions on Delos is an iconic row of marble statues dedicated to Apollo around 600 BCE by the people of Naxos. Originally featuring 9-12 snarling lions, these statues served as guardians and a source of divine inspiration. Today, seven remain, though replaced by replicas to protect the originals housed in the Delos Museum.

A brief summary to The Avenue of Lions

  • Delos, 846 00, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, as Delos offers little shade and requires a good amount of walking.
  • Bring water and snacks, as the options for purchasing refreshments on Delos are limited.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Explore the Delos Museum to see the original lion statues and other well-preserved artifacts from the island.
  • Check the ferry schedule in advance, as the frequency of departures from Mykonos can vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The Avenue of Lions is located on the island of Delos, accessible only by ferry. Ferries depart from the old port in Mykonos Town (Chora). Purchase a round-trip ticket from one of the kiosks near the harbor; these typically cost around €22 for adults. The ferry ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Upon arrival in Delos, you'll need to pay an entrance fee to the archaeological site, which is currently €20 for adults. Follow the marked paths from the harbor; the Avenue of Lions is a short walk from the main entrance.

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Discover more about The Avenue of Lions

The Avenue of Lions stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks on the island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a sanctuary of immense historical and mythological significance. Created around 600 BCE, the avenue was dedicated to Apollo by the people of Naxos, one of the Cycladic islands. These marble lions once lined the Sacred Way, leading to the temples, and served as symbolic guardians of the island and its sacred grounds. Originally, the Avenue featured between 9 and 12 squatting, snarling marble lions. Positioned facing east towards the now-dry Sacred Lake, where it was believed Apollo was born, the lions were meant to inspire a sense of divine power and to guard the area. Their design is comparable to Egyptian avenues of sphinxes. Today, only seven of the original lions remain. To protect them from the elements and further damage, the original statues have been moved to the Delos Museum. Replicas stand in their place, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the avenue as it once was. The Avenue of Lions offers a tangible connection to the ancient world, evoking the island's rich history and spiritual significance.

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