Great Tours: Greece and Turkey, from Athens to Istanbul Season 1 Episode 9 Quest for Wisdom at Apollo's Oracle: Delphi

In this episode of Great Tours: Greece and Turkey, from Athens to Istanbul, viewers will be taken on a journey to the ancient city of Delphi, where they will explore the famous Oracle of Apollo. Hosted by travel expert Ian Wright, the episode titled "Quest for Wisdom at Apollo's Oracle: Delphi" will delve into the history and mythology behind the sacred site.

The episode begins with Ian making his way to Delphi from the nearby town of Arachova, which is known for its vibrant culture and architecture. Along the way, viewers will get a taste of Greek life and culture, as they see locals going about their daily routines and witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Upon arriving at Delphi, Ian wastes no time in diving into the history of the Oracle of Apollo. He meets with local archaeologists and historians to learn about the ancient Greek myths and legends that surrounded the Oracle. From the story of the god Apollo and the serpent Python to the tale of King Croesus and his quest for wisdom, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the religious and cultural significance of the site.

Ian then takes viewers on a guided tour of the ruins of Delphi, including the Temple of Apollo, the Theater, and the Stadium. The stunning architecture and intricate details of the ruins are a testament to the incredible skill and creativity of the ancient Greeks, and Ian explains the purpose and function of each site in the context of ancient Greek society.

One of the highlights of the episode is Ian's visit to the Omphalos, which was believed to be the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. The Omphalos, which means "navel" in Greek, is a stone monument in the sanctuary of Apollo that was said to mark the spot where Zeus sent out two eagles to find the center of the earth. Ian discusses the significance of this monument and its role in ancient Greek myth and religion.

After exploring the ruins of Delphi, Ian meets with a local priestess who continues the tradition of interpreting the Oracle of Apollo. Viewers will learn about the different methods used to interpret the messages from the Oracle, and hear stories of how the Oracle was consulted by kings and emperors throughout the ancient world.

The episode concludes with Ian reflecting on the incredible history and wisdom that has been passed down through the Oracle of Apollo and other ancient Greek sites. As he prepares to leave Delphi, viewers are left with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that has been preserved in Greece and Turkey.

Overall, "Quest for Wisdom at Apollo's Oracle: Delphi" is a fascinating and educational episode of Great Tours: Greece and Turkey, from Athens to Istanbul. Combining stunning visuals with expert commentary and storytelling, this episode is sure to captivate viewers and inspire them to explore the cultural and historical treasures of Greece and Turkey for themselves.