Delphi

Monastery of Hosios Loukas - The Hosios Loukas Monastery, meaning “Esteemed Saint Luke,” was not built in honor of Luke the Evangelist but was founded by the Greek monk Loukas, who was interred in the monastery’s crypt upon his death in AD 953. One of the most remarkable features of the monastery is the stunning gold mosaic of the saint visible at the entrance. The large church, Katholikon, is connected to the abbey and, in turn, is linked to a smaller temple called Theotokos, constructed between 997 and 1011 to honor the Virgin Mary.

The temples are adorned with numerous frescoes and mosaics, all impeccably preserved. Beneath the Katholikon lies the crypt containing the saint’s remains.

Although Hosios Loukas is smaller, the structure may remind you of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul or St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.

Delphi - Our visit will include the Castalia spring, the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, the ancient Stadium, the ancient Theatre, the unique bronze Charioteer, and the Museum. In Greek mythology, Delphi was considered the navel of the earth, home to the Delphic Oracle and a major site for the worship of Apollo after he defeated the Python, a dragon guarding the earth’s navel. Apollo communicated through his oracle.

The oracle’s priestess, known as the Pythia, was an older woman who sat on a tripod seat over an opening in the earth. Possessed by Apollo, Pythia would deliver prophecies. People sought the Delphic Oracle’s guidance on matters ranging from public policy to personal issues. The Oracle held significant influence across the Greek world and was consulted before major events.

We will conclude our tour of Delphi’s archaeological site by visiting the Temple of Athena Pronea and the Gymnasium.

Delphi Archaeological Museum - The Archaeological Museum of Delphi, one of Greece’s most important museums, showcases the history of the Delphic sanctuary, home to the most renowned ancient Greek oracle. Its extensive collections primarily include architectural sculptures, statues, and smaller objects donated to the sanctuary, reflecting its religious, political, and artistic activities from the eighth century BC to its decline in Late Antiquity.

The museum is housed in a two-story building with a total area of 2270 square meters, featuring fourteen exhibition rooms, 558 square meters of storage, and conservation laboratories for pottery, metal objects, and mosaics.

Arachova - The traditional town of Arachova is situated just 10km from Delphi. A visit to Arachova reveals a charming blend of old and new, set against the sacred grounds of Apollo’s mountain.

Arachova is undoubtedly the queen of Parnassos. Built in an amphitheatric style, it spreads magnificently across the southern slopes of Parnassus at an altitude of 960 meters, ending at a cliff where the Pleistos river flows.

Arachova is vibrant and full of life. Its wild beauty, combined with its preserved traditional character, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and the numerous activities offered by the majestic Mount Parnassos, make it a top destination for Greek winter tourism and a favored spot in other seasons as well.

Kalambaka - We will continue our journey through the mountains of central Greece, arriving at Kalambaka, a significant town known for the Meteora, the second-largest and most important complex of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries in Greece after Mount Athos. We will spend the night in a hotel in Kalambaka. If time permits, we will watch the breathtaking sunset from the rock of Meteora.

Meteora

Meteora - The following morning, we will visit three of the six monasteries suspended in the air, built on natural sandstone rock pillars. The Meteora Monasteries date back to the 11th century and are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The James Bond movie “For Your Eyes Only” was filmed at the Monastery of Holy Trinity.

Thermopylae Museum - Thermopylae, also known as the Hot Gates, is a significant town famous for the battle between the Greek forces, including the 300 Spartans led by King Leonidas, and the Persians in 480 BC. This battle is commemorated by Simonides in the famous epitaph, “Go tell the Spartans, stranger passing by, That here obedient to their laws we lie.”

The monument of King Leonidas stands by the battlefield, reminding us of the patriots’ sacrifice for a free country.

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Professional drivers

• All meals
• Entance fees (Total Cost 28 Euros per adult)
• Two Local Licensed tour guides upon request, depending on availability (Additional Cost: 340 Euros)
• Airport pickup and drop off (Additional cost)
• Gratuities
• Hotel Accommodation