Delphi Ancient Town

Pickup from designated location Drive to Delphi Delphi formerly also called Pytho is famous for the ancient sanctuary that grew rich as the seat of Pythia, the oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The Greeks considered Delphi the navel or center of the world as represented by the stone monument known as the Omphalos of Delphi. Delphi archaeological site: A Unesco World Heritage Center, Delphi is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. The functions of the oracle grew over the centuries to include athletic games, cultural events, most importantly the Pythian games. The Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theater, the Stadium, the Athenian Treasury, the Gymnasium, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia are truly captivating. Delphi Archaeological Museum: Many important ancient Greek artifacts from the excavations at Delphi are housed here. Frieze of the Treasury of Sifnias Naxian Sphinx: Dated to 560 BC, comprises one of the earliest representations in art of the demonic creature with a lion's body, bird's wings and a woman's head. Metopes of the Athenian Treasury: Early 5th century BCE you will gaze upon Theseus and Antiope, Theseus and the Minotaur, Theseus and Marathonian bull, Heracles and the cattle of Geryon, Heracles battling the three-bodied giant Geryon, Heracles subduing a Centaur, Heracles and Cycnus, Heracles and the Nemean lion, An Amazonomachy scene and many more. Omphalos: Signifying the center of the earth and kept in Apollo's temple. Kleobis and Biton: Two brothers from Argos. The statues are of the typical kouros type attributed to a Peloponnesian workshop and date to the end of the 7th century BC. Statue of Antinoos: Portrays the celebrated for his beauty, youth and emperor Hadrian's favorite as a god. This work is considered one of the finest examples of the neoclassical style revived in the 2nd century AD. The famous Charioteer: Belonging to a statuary complex of a chariot run by four horses and included a second male figure. Delphi Village: A popular tourist destination the village of Delphi has many hotels, guesthouses, tavernas and bars. Lunch on the Caldera at Delphi, overlooking fabulous Itea and Amfissa.

Thermopylae

Thermopylae is a place in Greece where a narrow coastal passage existed in antiquity. The Battle of Thermopylae was fought between an alliance of Greek city states led by King Leonidas of Sparta and the Persian Empire of Xerxes. The Gates of Fire: Deriving from the Hot sulphur Springs and in Greek mythology the cavernous entrances to Hades. The monument of King Leonidas: Erected in 1955 and created by the sculptor Vasos Falireas. The brass sculpture of the Spartan King with his spear and shield is truly amazing. Thermopylae museum: The innovative museum is dedicated to the 480 BC battle that changed the course of Greek history and western civilization as we know it today. Hotsprings: The baths of Thermopylae could be described as a paradise of healing spas. High end hydrotherapy facilities focusing on balneotherapy not only as a treatment for specific ailments, illnesses and injuries but also to promote general well-being. Of the 60 pending, 34 springs have officially been recognized so far. Drive to Meteora Check in at your chosen hotel

Meteora

Visit the “Hanging Monasteries" (1 to 4 monasteries). The town of Kalambaka. The village of Kastraki. Experience the breathtaking Meteora sunset. Late lunch - early dinner at a traditional taverna. Stroll amongst the village shops where you can treat yourself and buy handmade souvenirs for your family and friends. Overnight at Kalambaka or Kastraki.

Meteora

Breakfast at Meteora Visit the remaining "Hanging Monasteries" The monasteries that will be visited are: St Nicolaos Rousanou Varlaam Metamorphosis Sotiros (Grand Monastery) St Trinity St Stefanos Lunch at a traditional Greek taverna at Kalambaka or Kastraki Coffees Drive back to Athens

Athens

Return to your chosen Hotel, Airbnb or apartment in Athens