Video: Oracle at Delphi
Summary:
One of
the holiest sites of ancient Greece, Delphi was the pre-eminent shrine of
Apollo. Cradled by Mount Parnassos and a valley of olive groves, it was also
sacred to Dionysus, who was supposedly buried there. But Delphi is chiefly known
for its legendary oracle the most famous of the ancient world.
Journey
back to the golden age of Greece, when the mysterious oracle of Delphi predicted
the futures of kings and countries. In the smoky, haunting, and hallucinogenic
atmosphere of the sacred shrine, predictions were uttered by a priestess in a
delirious trance and interpreted by a priest speaking in verse. Dramatic
re-creations bring the oracle to life, and leading historians explain how Delphi
grew wealthy through the offerings of those seeking a glimpse at their destiny.
Explore the ruins of this mystical site with archaeologists, and see the latest
discoveries that are shedding new light on the legendary city.
(1 hour)