Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Ancient Greek temple in Delphi, Greece.
The structure is a sanctuary in Delfi Municipality, Greece, standing today as a ruin of columns and foundation walls on a terrace carved into the mountainside. The layout shows Doric architecture with inscriptions remaining on the walls and a preserved platform that reveals the original footprint of the building.
Construction began in the fourth century before the common era as a replacement for older buildings destroyed by natural disasters. The sanctuary remained a religious center until its closure by Roman rulers in late antiquity.
Cities sent ambassadors regularly to seek guidance on important decisions, bringing precious gifts along. The site takes its name from the deity who spoke here through the Pythia, whose answers often came in ambiguous form.
Access follows a path that winds through the archaeological grounds and leads up to the temple area. Sturdy footwear helps when walking on the uneven stones and steps between the ruins.
Geologists have discovered natural fissures beneath the foundation that released gas. These emissions may have influenced the trance states of the priestess who delivered prophecies here.
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