Delos Island, Greece

The island of Delos is located in the center of the ring of islands known as the Cyclades. Delos is one of the most important islands in Greece due to its archaeological, mythological and historical sites. The island has been extensively excavated with its many artifacts being displayed in either the Archaeological Museum of Delos or the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

In Greek mythology the island of Delos was made the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo, it is said that when Leto was looking for a birthing place for Apollo she addressed the island itself saying:” Delos, if you would be willing to be the abode of my son Phoebus Apollo and make him a rich temple –; for no other will touch you, as you will find: and I think you will never be rich in oxen and sheep, nor bear vintage nor yet produce plants abundantly. But if you have the temple of far-shooting Apollo, all men will bring you hecatombs and gather here, and incessant savour of rich sacrifice will always arise, and you will feed those who dwell in you from the hand of strangers; for truly your own soil is not rich.” —Homeric, Hymn to Delian Apollo

Besides being the birthplace of the gods, in 1990 UNESCO had Delos put on to the World Heritage List due to its vast array of archaeological finds so all the many sites and ruins on the island are protected from harm. Among the many finds on the island was the Temple of the Delians and the Terrace of the Lions both being dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. There is also the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Isis, the House of Dionysus and the House of the Dolphins.

In a census taken in 2001 the island had 14 inhabitants, all working the excavation sites. The entire island cannot foster life on its own as there is no ability to grow food or trees, all building or food items have to be brought to the island. Obviously the area is not a tourist attraction as that would lead to priceless treasures being ruined, you have to apply for permission to be on the island as even fishing is not allowed in the area around Delos.

The island of Delos may not be a tourist attraction but it indeed is of great value to the entire world not just to Greece as its archaeological excavations continue to show that indeed people did at one time flourish on this now desolate island.

“Delos” Sacred Destinations

“Homeric Hymn to Delian Apollo” Temple Apollo


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