Delos | The Sacred Island of Apollo and Artemis

Delos, a small rocky island in the Aegean Sea, is one of the most significant mythological, historical, and archaeological sites of Ancient Greece. For everyone who happens to visit Mykonos or any other nearby island, a visit to the sacred island of Delos is necessary. One of my favorite islands and archaeological sites, renowned not only as the birthplace of Apollo, the god of the sun, and his twin sister Artemis, the goddess of the moon, but also as a pivotal religious sanctuary for centuries, Delos is a place worth visiting.

Delos Key Facts

Overview

Delos, referred to in ancient texts as “the most sacred of all islands,” is currently an uninhabited site accessible only by ferry from nearby islands. The island allows only visitors while it is protected by UNESCO, preserving its significance as a pure and sacred space. Once a thriving port, Delos’ archaeological remains position it as one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, spanning from ancient times to the present day.

Practical Travel Tips

Getting There

Delos is accessible by regular ferry services from Mykonos and Tinos, which operate frequently, particularly during the tourist season (May to September).

Accessibility

As a mostly archaeological site, Delos is accessible to visitors, but the terrain can be uneven. Make sure to wear good walking shoes when you’re exploring the various ruins!

Best Time to Visit

The optimal periods for visiting are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is more temperate, and tourist crowds are reduced. This allows for a more thoughtful and reflective exploration.

Duration of Visit

A one-day visit is generally enough to see the main attractions. Those with a special interest in Greek history may choose to stay on a nearby island and visit twice for a more comprehensive experience.

Budgeting

Entrance fees are reasonably priced at approximately 8 Euros, with additional charges for guided tours. Considering the size of Delos, visitors can plan a day trip in a cost-effective manner.

Local Amenities

Due to its protected status, Delos does not offer accommodation or restaurants. However, all necessary services are conveniently available on Mykonos. I advise visitors to bring water, snacks, and sun protection when planning their visit.

Delos in Greek Mythology

Delos also had a pivotal role in the Greek mythology. Let’s review the myths that shaped the island of Delos as it is.

The Birth of Apollo and Artemis

The mythology of Delos is intrinsically linked to the tale of goddess Leto. After sleeping with Zeus, Leto sought a place to give birth to her children, Apollo and Artemis, far from the jealous wrath of Hera. Hera prohibited Leto from giving birth on the ground, thus Leto had to find another way of giving birth to her children.

Wandering through the seas, Leto discovered a floating island that, by divine decree, suddenly emerged to provide her sanctuary. This could work because the island was not attached to the ocean, thus not exactly solid ground. The name of the island, Delos, derives from the verb δηλόω, which means “to reveal, to disclose”.

Leto clanged to an olive tree and gave birth to the twins. This tree was on Mount Cythnus, atop the sacred island. For that reason, Artemis was also called Cynthia and Apollo Delios.

The Delian Festival

The Delian festival, referenced in the Homeric Hymn to Apollo, has ancient origins and was celebrated every four years, likely in the Athenian months of Hieros or Thargelion. Members of the alliance would come to Delos, dressed in ceremonial garments with their families, to honor Apollo through gymnastic and musical contests, choruses, and dances. The early involvement of Athenians is evident through the Deliastoi, later known as Theoroi, as mentioned in Solon’s laws. They would also send a sacred vessel to Delos, purportedly the same one Theseus sent after returning from Crete.

The Naxian Lions

Delos is also the house of five marvelous marble lions, guardians of the sacred path to the Temple of Apollo. Made of Naxian marble, the majestic lions represented the power of the once-powerful island of Delos.

Delos in Ancient Greek History

Delos rose to prominence as a sacred sanctuary in the 9th century BC, with its religious significance based on the mythology surrounding Apollo and Artemis’ birth. Throughout the Archaic and Classical periods, the island was a major pilgrimage destination, attracting worshippers who came to pay their respects to the deities. The festivals held in their honor, particularly the Delia, cemented Delos’ reputation as a place of worship and cultural exchange. Its reputation grew, from a sacred site to a bustling trading hub, as merchants and artisans settled on the island, enriching its economy with goods and services.

The Delian League

Following the Persian Wars, the island gained importance as the headquarters of the Delian League. This confederation of city-states, formed in 478 BC to collectively resist Persian aggression, chose Delos as its political and religious center. The league’s treasury was originally housed in the Temple of Apollo. Reflecting the island’s role in pan-Hellenic unity. However, as Athens gained dominance, the treasury was relocated. This resulted in a shift in power dynamics that influenced Delos’ role in Greece’s broader political landscape.

Roman Times

During Roman times, Delos underwent a transformation from a sacred island to a vibrant commercial center. The Romans declared Delos a free port in 166 BC, and the island quickly became an important trading hub for goods from all over the Mediterranean. Wealth poured into Delos, and the population grew, creating a culturally rich and diverse community. However, this prosperity drew attention, and invasions, particularly those by Mithridates VI of Pontus, destabilized the island. As a result, Delos experienced significant decline, and despite its commercial success, the island’s sacred character faded with time.

Delos and UNESCO

By the 8th century AD, Delos had largely been abandoned. The combination of repeated invasions and a shift in trading routes led to its decline as a major settlement. As of 1990, UNESCO added the island to the World Heritage List, as an exceptional archaeological site. The island is recognized for reflecting the character of “a great cosmopolitan Mediterranean port”. The site is celebrated both for its influence on the evolution of Greek architecture as well as for its enduring sacred importance in the context of Ancient Greece.

Exploring the Location: Delos

Delos is rich in archaeological sites that reflect its storied past. Let’s explore some key structures:

The Sacred Lake

Once a vital water source, the Sacred Lake was integral to rituals conducted at the sanctuary. Today, it is intentionally kept dry to mitigate the risk of malaria.

The Temple of the Delians (Apollo)

A quintessential representation of Doric architecture, the Temple of Apollo was a focal point for worship and pilgrimage. Though only ruins remain, it was once adorned with grand sculptures and offerings.

The Terrace of the Lions

Dedicated to Apollo, this open-air area featured marble lions (the Naxian Lions) that lined the pathway leading to the temple. Their grandeur draws comparisons to Egyptian sphinxes, emphasizing the artistic prowess of the era.

The House of the Naxians

An elegant residence featuring intricate mosaics, this house shows the endearing quality of Delian artistry.

The Agora of the Competaliasts

This marketplace by the Sacred Harbour indicates the commercial thriving of Delos, where merchants of Italic origin conducted trade. The Italian merchant guilds dedicated statues here.

The Temple of Isis

Built during the height of Roman influence, this temple highlights the cultural exchanges taking place on Delos. The Doric temple was erected to venerate Isis, Serapis, and Anubis.

Last Thoughts

Delos holds immense importance that words alone cannot fully capture. The sacred island of Artemis and Apollo represents the convergence of mythology, archaeology, and history. Anyone interested in Ancient Greek mythology and history should not miss this excellent archaeological site.

Frequently Asked Questions

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