Semester at Sea Summer '09

Delphi was one of the most important sites in Ancient Greece. Not only was it home to Apollo, it was also the location of the famous Delphic Oracle and the Pythian Games, which rivaled the Olympic Games in prestige and importance. Today, Delphi's archaeological remains and sculptural treasures are powerful and vivid reminders of Greece's Classical past.

Located about 120 miles west of Athens, Ancient Delphi is one of the most beautiful sites in Greece, surrounded by deep gorges and towering mountain peaks. It is no wonder that Ancient Greeks considered it to be the center (navel) of the world. The Sacred Way, leading to the Temple of Apollo, was once lined with some 3,000 statues and treasuries, built by city-states to house their people's offerings. Some of these, like the treasury of the Athenians built in 490 BCE, still stand. The ancient theater and stadium, both overlooking the Temple of Apollo, are some of the best preserved in all of Greece
The Delphic Oracle was the most famous in Ancient Greece. For over a thousand years, a steady stream of pilgrims made their way up the dangerous mountain paths to the oracle, seeking guidance in matters of war, worship, love or business. The line of questioners often formed days in advance and, after an animal sacrifice and purification in the crystal clear icy waters of the Castalian Spring, which still exists, each was presented to the Pythia (priestess) who's strange and garbled answers were then translated in verse by the priests.

The Delphi Museum contains a spectacular collection of sculptures and architectural remains associated with the Sacred Precinct, rivaling that of the Acropolis Museum in Athens. We will also stop at the historic 11th-century walled monastery of Hosios Loukas, dedicated to a local hermit and healer, Holy Luke. It is one of the most important monuments of Byzantine architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The octagonal style of the main church became a model for later Byzantine churches, and the interior contains important examples of Medieval frescos and mosaics. Please note: Flat rubber-soled shoes or hiking boots are recommended as the visit to Delphi includes climbing uneven pathways and steps. (Lunch at a local restaurant is included.)