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The Oracle of Delos

The Delian Oracle of Apollo was one of the most famous in the world. Not only because of it's antiquity, but for the rich gifts dedicated to the god. People came from the four corners of the world seeking advice. It surpassed all the other gods, but even those of Apollo himself. Some say the island had it's name Delos from the clear and simple terms in which the answeres were given. "KNOW THYSELF!" This was much different than the abiguity observed in other places. Apollo was in residence at Delos durring the summer, and consulted then only. The presents and votaries offered to Apollo were laid on the alter. This was said to have been erected by Apollo himself, and formed by the horns of goats killed by his sister Artemis on Mt. Cynthus. It was preserved pure from blood and every kind of pollution. The whole island was an asylum, which included all living creatures except dogs.

The native dieties Apollo and Artimis had magnificent temples erected for them on the island. According to Strabo the Temple of Apollo was begun by Erysiapthus, the son of Creops. He is said to have possesed the island 1558 years B.C. Later it was enlarged and embelished., at the expense of the Grecian states. plutarch says it was one of the most stately buildings in the universe, among the wonders of the world. The inscription in the temple was: "Of all things the most beautiful is justice; the most useful is health; and the most agreeable is the possesion of the beloved object."

Round the temple were magnificent porticoes built at the expense of various princes, which appear as still legible inscriptions. To this temple the neighboring islands sent yearly a company of virgins to celebrate with dancing the festival of Apollo, and his sister Artemis, and to make offerings in the name of their cities.

Delos was held in such high reverance by most nations that even the Persians, after having laid waste to the other islands, and everywhere destroyed the temples of the gods, spared Delos. Datis the Persian admiral, forbore to anchor in the harbor.

The Oracle of Delos

Life on the Sacred Island
Delian Games & Festivals
The Jewel In the Crown