Delos - The Sanctuary of Apollo (Tour A)
Mediterranean Excursions
- £40-60
- 3.5 hours
- Hard
Delos, Holy Land of the ancient Greeks and legendary birthplace of the sun god Apollo and his sister Artemis, is one of the Cyclades Islands. In antiquity a famous place and an important port, Delos today is virtually deserted with the exception of the government-appointed Guardian of the Ruins.
Delos, Holy Land of the ancient Greeks and legendary birthplace of the sun god Apollo and his sister Artemis, is one of the Cyclades Islands. In antiquity a famous place and an important port, Delos today is virtually deserted with the exception of the government-appointed Guardian of the Ruins. From Mykonos quay we depart by local boat for Delos, where we will land on the western side of the island, close to the Sacred Harbour. We proceed on foot to reach the first point of interest, the Sanctuary of Apollo, announced by the Propylaea – a white marble gateway built in the 2nd century BC. Then it’s on to the, now dry, Sacred Lake – sacred for having witnessed the birth of Apollo. The lake is surrounded by a wall, and nearby is the Terrace of the Lions, where five marble lions dating from the 7th century BC used to stand guard (the originals are in the museum for restoration, and copies stand in their place). After a visit to the local Archaeological Museum, we follow the road up to the Temple of the Egyptian Gods before descending towards the Theatre Quarter, passing the ancient Theatre of Delos. This quarter consists of private houses dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman ages, many adorned with beautiful preserved mosaics. Following our guided walking tour, we proceed back to the harbour area and return by boat to Mykonos. The visit to the archaeological site is made entirely on foot; comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Please take into consideration that the pathways at the site of Delos are uneven.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES
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Snack or meal provided
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Refreshments available
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Free time
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Shopping opportunity
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Wheelchair access
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Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
