Temple of Apollo

Temple of Apollo

As you enter Delphi, the Temple of Apollo stands before you, with its ancient ruins framed by Mount Parnassus in the background. This sacred site, once the heart of the Greek world, was renowned for housing the Oracle of Delphi. Here, Pythia, a priestess, conveyed Apollo's wisdom through mysterious prophecies that influenced the futures of both kings and ordinary people.


Walking along the Sacred Way, you can witness history, as it is here where pilgrims from across the Mediterranean sought answers to their deepest questions. The Temple itself, built in the 4th century BCE, stands as a testament to ancient Greek architecture and spirituality. Its Doric columns and intricate friezes once enclosed the omphalos, believed to be the earth's centre. The air is thick with the aura of myth and legend, where Apollo, the god of light and prophecy, once reigned supreme.

Temple of Apollo Architecture

The First Four Temples

The Temple of Apollo at Delphi began as a humble wooden structure around the 7th century BCE. According to legend, the second temple was constructed using laurel branches from the Temple, reflecting Apollo's sacred association. The third temple, attributed to Hephaestus in mythology, was said to be made of bronze and was lost to a natural disaster. The fourth temple, built with stone by architects Trophonius and Agamedes, was completed before its destruction by fire in 548 BCE.

The Fifth Temple

The fifth and final temple was a significant reconstruction completed in 330 BCE, following an earthquake. It featured a Doric hexastyle façade, with six columns at the front and fifteen on the sides. The temple was constructed using local limestone and was adorned with Parian marble sculptures. The eastern pediment depicted Apollo and his chariot, while the western one showcased Dionysus. This temple was funded by various Greek city-states, illustrating its pan-Hellenic importance.

The Exterior

The temple's exterior boasted a colonnade of 38 Doric columns, providing a robust and harmonious appearance. The stylobate supported these columns, which tapered slightly, creating an illusion of height and stability. The eastern pediment showed Apollo with the Muses, representing arts and music. On the other hand, the western pediment depicted the battle between gods and giants, known as the gigantomachy. Metopes and friezes illustrated various Greek myths, reinforcing the cultural narratives of the time.

The Interior

Inside, the cella housed a large cult statue of Apollo, possibly crafted by Phidias. The adyton was where the Pythia, seated on a tripod, delivered oracles. The cella walls were adorned with frescoes and offerings from worshippers, including valuable gifts and artworks. The omphalos stone, located in the adyton, was central to the temple's spiritual function, believed to mark the earth's centre and connect the divine with the mortal world.

Historic Use of Temple of Apollo

Worship of Apollo and Dionysus

The Temple of Apollo at Delphi was primarily dedicated to Apollo, the god of prophecy, music, and healing. For nine months, Apollo was worshipped through rituals, including music and poetry performances. During winter, the temple shifted focus to Dionysus, the god of wine and festivity. This seasonal transition highlighted the dual worship practices, reflecting the balance between order and ecstasy in Greek spirituality.

Prophecy and The Pythia

The Pythia, the priestess of Apollo, delivered oracles that drew visitors from across the ancient world. She entered a trance, possibly induced by natural gases, to convey Apollo's messages. These prophecies, often cryptic, influenced major decisions, such as wars and political alliances. The process involved purification rituals and sacrifices, making the experience deeply spiritual and culturally significant.

Healing

Apollo was also worshipped as a god of healing at Delphi. People sought cures for illnesses, believing in Apollo's divine intervention. The temple provided a sanctuary where the sick could receive spiritual and sometimes medical care. Inscriptions suggest that the temple taxed visitors for these services, reflecting its role as a centre of holistic healing, addressing both physical and spiritual ailments.

Offerings

Offerings were a crucial part of worship at Delphi. Pilgrims presented gifts, including animals for sacrifice, precious metals, and artistic works. These offerings were both personal and communal, often reflecting gratitude or seeking favour. The accumulated wealth from these gifts made Delphi a prosperous sanctuary. It also showcased the cultural and artistic achievements of the contributors, including notable figures like King Croesus of Lydia.

The Sacred Wars

The Temple of Apollo was central in the Sacred Wars, fought over control of its wealth and influence. These conflicts involved major Greek city-states, highlighting the temple's political significance. The wars often resulted in the looting of Delphi's treasures. They underscored the intertwined nature of religion and politics, as control of Delphi meant access to divine guidance and immense wealth.

FAQ's for Temple of Apollo

Why Temple of Apollo is famous?

The Temple of Apollo at Delphi is famous for housing the Oracle of Delphi, the most important oracle in ancient Greece. The Pythia, a priestess, delivered prophecies that influenced major decisions in politics and warfare. The temple's architectural grandeur and its role as a cultural and religious hub, hosting events like the Pythian Games, further enhanced its renown. 

How long should one spend in the Temple of Apollo?

A visit to the Temple of Apollo typically takes around 1-2 hours. This allows enough time to explore the temple's ruins, admire the surrounding scenery, and visit the nearby museum. For a more immersive experience, including walking along the Sacred Way and learning about the site's history, you may want to spend closer to 2 hours.

What is the best time to visit the Temple of Apollo?

The best time to visit the Temple of Apollo is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). In spring, the weather is mild, and the landscape is vibrant with blooming flowers, making it ideal for exploration. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing the experience. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter is quieter but cooler with occasional closures.

Is Temple of Apollo open?

Yes, the Temple of Apollo in Delphi is open to visitors. From April 1 to October 31, it operates daily from 08:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m. You can explore the temple ruins and the surrounding archaeological sites during these hours. It is recommended to check for any changes in operating hours or special events that might affect your visit.

What is the myth of Apollo in Delphi?

The myth of Apollo at Delphi involves the god slaying the serpent Python, who guarded the site. After killing Python, Apollo established his oracle at Delphi, making it a sacred place for divination. He is said to have brought Cretan priests to serve at the oracle. Delphi was also considered the centre of the world, marked by the omphalos stone.

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