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| | Delphi, the Navel of the Earth |
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It takes only a glance at the scenery to explain why ancient Greeks called Delphi the "navel" of the earth. The breathtaking, awe inspiring scenery is overwhelming before one has the opportunity to visit the magnificent ruins of this shrine of Apollo, whose mystique is still alive today...
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History |
| The history of Delphi is almost inseparable from mythology which remains as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. It is said that Zeus released two eagles, one from the East and one from the West. |
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Galaxidi |
| If one continues one’s journey westwards and down to the sea from Arahova and Delphi, one arrives at the seaports of Itea and Galaxidi. Because it is built in a doubly protected bay, it appears that Galaxidi was a functioning seaport from ancient times and indeed, archeological authorities are excavating the ancient walls of the city. |
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Arahova |
| Although Arahova never flourished and bloomed the way Galaxidi did, since it was high up in the mountains, it was an affluent village owing to olive production and livestock. |
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Ancient Archaeological Sites |
| The monuments of Delphi are incomparable and justice cannot be done to them in a few lines. Above the main highway, there is the ancient theater, the Temple of Apollo and the Castalia Source, where Pythia would purify herself before giving her cryptic predictions. |
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Other Landmarks - Places of Interest |
| Apart from the ancient ruins, the area has other things of interest to offer as well. The monastery of Osios Loukas nearby with its exquisite 11th century mosaics and frescoes in the crypt, and also the church of Agios Nikolaos (the patron saint of seafarers, a sort of Christian Poseidon to the Greeks) in Galaxidi with its unique wood carved screen (templum). |
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Cuisine - Wines |
| Arahova is renowned for its cuisine and has a number of excellent tavernas and "ouzo shops", providing a variety of meat dishes, soups with a predominantly spicy flavor and plentiful locally produced olive oil. |
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How to Get There |
| The best way is by private car, so that one can linger and plan one’s own itinerary. Most visitors usually stop first in Arahova, continue on to Delphi and then down to the sea. |
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Where to Stay |
| Hotels of Delfi |
