June 9th was our first and only full day spent in the little town of Delphi. Yesterday evening we were all met with jaw dropping scenery and one of the best sunsets I have ever seen! It was a promise of a good stay there and it did not disappoint.
After a slightly sleepy start, the group headed down the road towards the site and museum of Delphi. After a little detour to the gymnasium, which happened to be closed in the morning, and by the fountain where the priestess Pythia would bathe before deciphering the oracles at Delphi, we started up the first steps to the sacred sanctuary.
The only thing that underwhelmed me about my expectations for the site was how the “hike” turned out to be more of a steep walk. The remains of the various treasuries needed some imagination to be well appreciated, but I’m learning that that is to be expected at sites. After all, these buildings had been out of use since before the Ottoman period.
It was easy to understand why the ancient Greeks believed the sight to be so revered. They thought it to be the navel of the earth and they placed a specific stone called the Omphalos of Delphi in the middle of their world. I cannot imagine a more beautiful setting and I think this could have influenced the ancient Greeks as well. Standing on the side of Mount Parnassus, looking out into the valley, a connection is made between the person and the ground they stand on. I am not a religious or spiritually connected person and even I felt complete and peaceful the entire time I was at the site. Almost as though the location was answering my own uncertainties.
After learning more about a few structures and practices that would have occurred in the sanctuary we made our way down and enjoyed free time before going back to peruse the artifacts in the museum. Nearing the end of the day, a small group of us started a lovely dinner on a balcony restaurant and more people from our group obviously had the same idea. An impromptu “family dinner” ensued and was followed by a night of laughter and connecting that sent me to bed with a smile on my face.
Aside from the views of the mountains and valley, I could not get over how many friendly and genuine locals I met during our very short stay. Each shop owner was helpful and eager to answer my many questions. The residents seemed genuinely pleased to give us tourists a little slice of their piece of heaven.
One shop owner in particular was without a doubt the nicest man I have ever met. He was very appreciative of us telling others about his store and he gave everyone great deals and even better service. He even invited a few of us to come to his family event the next day and watch his traditional dance group perform! What an experience that would have been. Unfortunately we had to move on the next morning and continue our whirlwind trip around Greece.
I know that I am not the only one who enjoyed this tiny town more than the hustle and bustle of Athens. Both towns have incredible sights to offer, however Delphi provided an unforgettable experience. A calm and friendly atmosphere enveloped me as soon as I stepped off the bus and when I left it was with a heavy but happier heart.
