With Sangaris safely tucked in a berth at Messolonghi and a rental car at hand, a trip to Delphi made for a perfect second day of Jen and Amy's Greek holiday.
The scenic drive of about two hours was breathtakingly beautiful, quite exciting (read: very fast Greek drivers passing us on hairpin turns) and, it being late season, it was a cinch: with easy parking, no lines, a brilliant blue sky and comfortable temps for walking this potent spiritual and archaeological site.
Although only three columns remain of the magnificent Sanctuary of Athena it was absolutely enough to let our imaginations soar.
Nearby we walked the "Sacred Way" past the Temple of Apollo where the Delphic oracle uttered prophecies that sent armies to battle, lovers to swoon and poor Oedipus on his way with news of future "family troubles" - a therapist's delight, but you know the story.
Following the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims, Jen had a go with seeking her own oracle blessing ~ we're pretty sure she didn't get exactly what she asked for ... but that drama won't unfold until a later blog.
The location of this ancient site, once the center of the Greek world, is truly spectacular. Built on the slopes of Mt. Parnassos, it overlooks the Gulf of Corinth and extends down into a gorgeous valley of cypress and olive trees.
We've tried to capture the beauty and magnitude of the vistas; certainly the larger pics in the "photo gallery" will help you envision the dramatic scenery. Here's a preview to whet your appetite.
Delphi's considerable treasure trove of friezes, statues, columns and unearthed gold is magnificently displayed in its on-site museum. We snapped close-ups of the Sphinx, metopes (fragments of figures within the friezes) and the celebrated life-size bronze charioteer, commemorating a victory in the Pythian Games of 478 BC and have included them in the photo gallery as well. Happy virtual touring!