Monday, January 26, 2009

Delphi and the Oracle


Delphi is a very dramatic place. The drama is provided by the domineering Mt. Parnassos (today a famous ski center) and by the ancient archeological site with its sanctuary of Apollo, an ancient theater, a museum, etc.. In the classical Greek world, the sanctuary of Apollo was house to the Oracle delivered by the 'Phytea', the priestess ( an old speckless woman). The Oracle spoken in riddles, was interpreted by the priests of the temple and directed by them to the people who came from all over Greece to hear the prophesies of the Oracle and consult it before major undertakings.



Mt. Parnassos towering over Delphi

Delphi, the town and ancient site
At the foot of Mt. Parnassos' Might
Historical, dramatic, and sacred spot
Where people listened to and obeyed God

Here's the temple of Apollo, God of Light
Who foretold the future and was Guide
To people from all over the land of Greece
Who came to hear the Oracle through his priests.


The sanctuary dedicated to Apollo

Point of departure to and from the archeological site


View from above of the port of Itea


Narrow souvenir shop area

Friday, January 23, 2009

Cape Sounio


Sounio - what a lovely name, sounds romantic too. The place is famous for its sunsets .People gather at the temple on top of it to watch the sun go down in changing colors of yellow, red, and orange. It also offers , on a clear day, a panoramic view of surrounding islands in the Aegaen Sea such as the nearby greek islets of Makronisi and Patroklou


Cape Sounio is the name of the majestic spot
Really worth stopping at it for a camera shot
Up the hill and below it, there are things to see
Such as temple of Poseidon, the God of Sea

Under the marble temple a small harbour
And the Aegaen Sea with its blue crystal water
It is southernmost point of Europe mainland
One can see from above some aegaen islands


Climbing up the hill


Temple of Poseidon, the God of Sea in mythology


Boats on the sea

Bellow the hill, the Sea and a restaurant