Delos Island

The little island of Delos can be found south-west of the Mykonos island and it hides a precious historical site of archaeological jewels of which the fame and significance goes well beyond the Cyclades. It is no wonder that the place was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List already 18 years ago.

There are also many legends related to the island. According to one of them, two significant Greek gods were born there . the god of art, health, light and reason, Apollo, and his twin sister Artemis, the goddess of the hunt. This is why the place has been considered as sacred.

History of the island

The history of Delos is quite varied which is evidenced also by the rare historical sites, some of them dating back as early as 5 000 years ago. Those give evidence of the great level of development of the original inhabitants. The archaeological works in the place only began in the second half of the 19th century, uncovering many unique sites.

Most interesting sites

The most famous sites on the island is the Terrace of the Lions. It is formed by several marble statues of lions standing in a row one next to another in a lurking position, protecting the Sacred Way. There is also a huge penis on a pedestal as a symbol of Dionysus, the son of Zeus and the patron saint of fertility, harvest and wine. There is also a partially presrved vast stone theatre, a Greek amphiteatre where you will literally feel the history, several remarkable statues, ancient columns, remains of many edifices and temples with well-preserved perimeter walls and mosaics, a fountain, and wall engravings.