Authors
George P. Papadellis | SG Head
with some good tips from AI
The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Greek history and culture. The museum is located in Delphi, a small town in central Greece that was once considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. The museum, one of the most important and most visited museums in Greece, houses the discoveries of the sanctuary of Delphi, a wide variety of artifacts and exhibits that provide insight into the religious, political, and cultural life of ancient Greece. In this article, we explore the history and significance of the Archaeological Museum of Delphi and some of the most important artifacts on display.
Photo by: I, Tetraktys, Museuarqueologicodelfos, CC BY-SA 2.5
History of Delphi Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Delphi was established in 1903 to house the artifacts discovered during the excavations of the ancient city of Delphi. It is, since then, operated by the Greek Ministry of Culture (Ephorate of Antiquities of Phocis). The excavations were conducted by a team of French archaeologists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum was built on the site of the ancient gymnasium and originally housed only a small number of artifacts. However, over the years, the museum has expanded to include several galleries and a vast collection of ancient artifacts.
Interior of the Archaeological Museum of Delphi | Photo by: Chabe01, Intérieur Musée Archéologique Delphes - Delphes (GR44) - 2022-03-23 - 2, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Exhibits
The exhibits at the Archaeological Museum of Delphi are divided into several galleries, each of which showcases a different aspect of ancient Greek culture. The discoveries date from the Late Helladic (Mycenean) period to the early Byzantine era. The museum is organized in 14 rooms at two levels, in a total space of 2.270 m2. Some of the most important displays are the famous Charioteer of Delphi, the frieze of the Siphnian Treasury and the Sphinx of Naxos. The most notable galleries include:
The Treasury of the Athenians Gallery
This gallery houses the artifacts discovered in the Treasury of the Athenians, an ancient building that served as a storage place for valuable offerings to the god Apollo. The gallery includes a collection of gold and silver objects, including jewelry, cups, and plates.
Offerings of the Treasury of the Athenians Gallery | Photo by: Vislupus, Delphi 012, cropped and rotated by Shiny Greece, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Charioteer Gallery
This gallery features the bronze statue of a charioteer, which is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Greek sculpture. The gallery also includes a collection of other sculptures and artifacts from the Sanctuary of Apollo.
Charioteer of Delphi | Photo by: RaminusFalcon, AurigaDelfi, cropped by Shiny Greece, CC BY 3.0
The Sphinx of Naxos Gallery
This gallery houses the Sphinx of Naxos, a massive marble statue of a sphinx that once guarded the entrance to the Sanctuary of Apollo. The gallery also includes a collection of other sculptures and artifacts from the Sanctuary.
Sphinx of Naxos Gallery at Delphi Museum | Photo by: Holger Uwe Schmitt, "Delphi ist der Mittelpunkt der Welt glaubten die Menschen in der Antike. 04, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Roman Agora Gallery
This gallery features a collection of artifacts from the Roman Agora of Delphi, including statues, inscriptions, and architectural fragments.
Statue of Ploutarch in Delphi Museum | Photo by: Tiu Fraili, Estauta Plutarcu en Delfu, cropped by Shiny Greece, CC0 1.0
In-Depth
The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is a fascinating destination that provides visitors with an in-depth look at the ancient history and culture of Greece. The museum's exhibits provide a glimpse into the religious, political, and cultural life of the ancient Greeks and showcase some of the finest examples of ancient Greek art and architecture. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the Archaeological Museum of Delphi is a must-visit destination.
