Delphi and the Corinth Canal

According to tradition, Delphi is the geographical centre of the ancient Greek world, the meeting point of two eagles dispatched by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the centre of the world.  A short taxi ride from Galaxidhi, past extensive olive groves and up a steep mountainside and we arrived in Delphi. 

The Sacred Omphalos, believed to have fallen from the heavens - or possibly thrown down by Zeus.  The first signs of habitation here date back to Mycenaean times (14th - 11th C BC).

A late addition - The Agora - built by the Romans in the 4th Century AD

A nice view, on the way to the Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo - 11th to 9th Centuries BC

Water Conservation

The Amphitheatre and Temple of Apollo

And it's all written in stone - extensive written records of Ancient Times can be found all over the site.

The Stadium, originally built by the Greeks in the 5th Century BC, the seating was added by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 2nd Century AD.

We left Galaxidhi, spent a night at anchor and then headed for the Corinth Canal 

Prior to the Canal, ships used to be dragged overland across the isthmus.  Work on the Canal started in 1881, and finished 12 years later.  Completion was delayed by the bankruptcy  of the original contractors - nothing changes then!

It is impressive - and also at €203 one way, the most expensive 3 mile stretch of water in the world (possibly).  

Tied up to pay our dues - and entering the Aegean Sea.