Delos in Greece | Tripmondo

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Prefecture of CYCLADES (Hellenic Ministry of Culture)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1990
Size of heritage: 351 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 25,267°
Latitude: 37,400°

Summary

According to Greek mythology, Apollo was born on this tiny island in the Cyclades archipelago. Apollo's sanctuary attracted pilgrims from all over Greece and Delos was a prosperous trading port. The island bears traces of the succeeding civilizations in the Aegean world, from the 3rd millennium B.C. to the palaeochristian era. The archaeological site is exceptionally extensive and rich and conveys the image of a great cosmopolitan Mediterranean port.

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Delos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece

Delos, located in the Prefecture of Cyclades in the South Aegean region of Greece, is a small island of immense historical and archaeological significance. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990, Delos is renowned for its well-preserved ruins and its role as a religious, political, and commercial center in ancient times.

History

Delos has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 3rd millennium BCE. According to Greek mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo, the god of light, and his twin sister Artemis, the goddess of hunting. This mythological connection made Delos a sacred site and a major religious center in ancient Greece.

In the 5th century BCE, Delos became a thriving commercial hub due to its strategic location in the Aegean Sea. The island served as a meeting point for merchants from various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and Phoenicians. The prosperity of Delos was further enhanced by its status as a free port, attracting traders from all corners of the Mediterranean.

During this period, Delos witnessed a remarkable architectural and cultural development. Magnificent temples, statues, and public buildings were constructed, showcasing the wealth and artistic achievements of the island. The most famous monument on Delos is the Terrace of the Lions, a row of marble lion statues that once guarded the Sacred Way leading to the sanctuary of Apollo.

Current State

Today, Delos stands as a remarkable archaeological site, offering visitors a glimpse into the ancient world. The island is uninhabited, and its preservation is carefully managed by the Greek Ministry of Culture and the Ephorate of Antiquities of Cyclades.

Exploring Delos, visitors can wander through the well-preserved ruins of temples, houses, and marketplaces. The archaeological site covers an area of approximately 1.3 square kilometers, and each step reveals the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. The House of Dionysus, the House of Cleopatra, and the Temple of Isis are among the notable structures that can be admired.

The Archaeological Museum of Delos, located on the island, houses a remarkable collection of artifacts discovered during excavations. Visitors can marvel at ancient statues, pottery, and jewelry, gaining a deeper understanding of the island's history and cultural significance.

Address
Distance: 2,5 mi
ALEOMANDRA
84600 MYKONOS
Greece

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Rain was the only fresh water at Delos

Published: June 23, 2011
Length: 27:35 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Vladislav Dolnik

A boat trip to Delos, the birthplace of twin gods, Apollo and Artemis. In the ancient Greece, Delos was an important cultural and business center and also a prestigious address.