Day 5: Thursday, September 9: Thermopylae, Delphi, Athens
We continued heading south on this new day. We had a good rest last night and are eager to get to Athens by early this evening. We would have a rainy/drizzly morning, but the sun broke through by lunch time, with perfect temperatures around 70. As we left Kalambaka, we read from Philippians 1:27-30.
Thermopylae
Our first visit was to Thermopylae, about 1.5 hours south from Kalambaka. This .was where the famous battle between the Persians and the 300 Spartans (and 700 Thespians) took place. The narrow pass between the water’s edge and the steep mountains can still be visualized today where Leonidas and his men got trapped.
Drive to Delphi
Leaving this flatter area, we once again drove through the next set of Greek mountains called the Parnassos. The clouds were thick here, with a light rain. However s we approached noontime, we descended down to the town of Itea located along the Adriatic Sea. We enjoyed a wonderful seafood lunch (although a few had moussaka).
Delphi
The most classic Greek city nestled up on the mountainside is Delphi. This was our next stop. Upon arriving to the archaeological site, we began our climb up this city known for the Apollo Temple, Treasury, theater, stadium, and the oracles. The Pythia (diviners) were the ones who shared prophecies nine days each year. They were servants of the temple priests who dedicated their lives to this purpose (Paul encountered one in Philippi, Acts 16). Perhaps she served here in Delphi. We cannot be sure.
“I love today’s program. I loved the drive through the mountains, lunch by the sea, and the temple, theater, and stadium at Delphi. Wow… just wow!” –Tour Member-
Aliki took us up past many of these massive structures. The Temple of Apollo (which dates to the 4th century BC, although first built around the 7th century BC) must have been quite impressive with a massive base and pillars. The theater (located above the temple) held 4,500 people. Some in the group hiked further upward to see the stadium. Its total length is close to 600 feet.
Following seeing the site, we visited the museum. A number of significant items are on display here, including the famous bronze horse rider statue and the Gallio Inscription. In 51-52 AD, he was the proconsul of Achaia. He was the one who stood on the Bema in Corinth and heard Paul’s speech in the agora there (Acts 18:12).
Athens
Leaving Delphi, we descended down the beautiful mountain range to the highway leading to Athens. The drive took about three hours, with one brief stop on the way.
Arriving in Athens, we checked into the hotel and enjoyed dinner together. We retired after dinner in preparation of our flight to Izmir, Turkey tomorrow. We will return to Athens on Sunday night.
Day 6: Friday, September 10: Flight to Izmir, Turkey, Ephesus
