Delos

candid Greece tips

 

Why the
Greek Island
Delos is special

The tiny, rocky island of Delos was once a religious center of the Ancient Greeks. The ruins of its many monuments attest to its former greatness.

Delos
tips & insights

Greek mythology

It tells us that the Greek Island Delos is the birthplace of two major gods, the twins Apollo and Artemis. Temples, sanctuaries and statues were erected in their honor.

Trading port

Later, in its Hellenistic and Roman periods, Delos became a prosperous Greek Island trading port. Then, in the first century BC, it was destroyed in war and never recovered. Excavation began in 1873.

Marble lions (see photo)

The most photographed artifacts are the squatting 7th century BC marble lions. Some tourists don't realize that they are copies. The originals are in the island's museum.

Other popular Delos tourist sites

Agora
Amphitheatre
Mosaic floors
Sacred Way
Sanctuary of Apollo

View

If you're fit, climb the steps up to the 112-meter (368-foot) high Mt. Kynthos' summit for a view of the Delos ruins below you. In the distance is the Greek Island Mykonos, one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Getting there

You can reach Delos, Greece in under 30 minutes via small tourist boats from Mykonos. There's also service from the more distant Greek Islands of Naxos, Paros and Tinos.

Be aware that it can be rather windy in this part of Greece. This could create choppy seas and an uncomfortable passage. Occasionally, the waves are so rough that boat trips from Mykonos are cancelled.

More pointers

Delos has no accommodations - it's strictly a daytrip affair.
Bring a hat. Delos is barren. The sun is relentless and shade is rare.

sponsored ad 

Explore my
candid country, region
and other travel guides
Click links for tips & insights

©2010 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications