Delos is the central island of the Cyclades archipelago in the Aegean Sea and is located close to Mykonos. This is one of the most sacred islands in Greece and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its rich historical, mythological and archaeological significance.
A climb to the top of Mouth Kynthos, just over a 100 metres tall, will reward you with breathtaking views of the sprawling ruins, the sea and neighbouring islands.
History
Delos is considered to be the birthplace of the Olympian twins – Apollo, the Sun God and Artemis, the Moon Goddess according to Greek mythology. The Ancient Greeks held this island in high regard so much so that no mortal birth or death was allowed to occur here. Pregnant women, before their deliveries and older or sick residents, were taken to the nearby island Rineia.
Archaeological data has shown that life on this island began way back in the 3rd millennium BC. Over the ages, Delos gained importance as a religious, commercial and political centre. As the birthplace of Apollo, it was popular among pilgrims. Delos’ history has witnessed multiple power struggles, political invasions and even pirate attacks. At one point, it was occupied by the Romans and was transformed into a commercial port. In spite of these conflicts, festivals, rituals and sporting events were celebrated in a grand fashion on Delos.
The Ruins of Delos
Once you reach the docks of Delos, the ruins of the Sacred Way will guide you through the island. The Sacred Way will take you to the most sacred and prime spot – the three temples dedicated to Apollo and a towering 9m statue of the God, only fragments of which now remain. The Temple of Delians was the biggest among the three. Near this, you will find the Artemision, the temple for Apollo’s twin sister Artemis. Just beyond these temples is the famed Terrace of the Lions, a series of white stone lion statues. It is believed that there were originally more than ten lions out of which only seven remain today. The lion statues were gifted by the people of Naxos, a nearby island to guard the Sacred Lake, which was once the prime water source for the island.
The Hypostyle Hall or the Stoa of Poseidon, located next to the Terrace of the Lions, was massive with more than 40 columns supporting the roof. It might have been a public dining or gathering place.
The temples dedicated to Zeus, the father and Leto, the mother of the twins, Goddesses Hera and Athena and others like Hercules and Dionysus are found in ruins. Apart from this, there are the remains of a Theatre Complex, stadium, gymnasium, several houses of the inhabitants and buildings which were used for political and commercial purposes.
Delos Museum
Note that most of the ruins on the island are replicas and the original remains are on display in the museum. Several sculptures, statues of deities, frescoes, mosaics and other artefacts from the site are preserved here.
Why should you visit?
Delos is a truly unique experience – the remains of the ancient city roll out all over the island and seem like a huge outdoor museum. With the ruins as the outline, use your imagination to create the whole picture and try to visualise Delos for the glorious sanctuary it once was.
Follow our blog for your daily dose of travel inspiration, information and tips. We try to publish atleast one article each day. Check this space for all the latest posts.
