UNESCO World Heritage Delos for Seniors Holidays
Greek Island Hopping for Older People to See Archaeological Remains
Sep 28, 2009
Greek island hopping is by no means the preserve of the young. Older people ’s holidays on them should especially try to include a visit to Delos, an island which combines archaeological remains with serene mystical scenery. It is about four kilometres long and one kilometre across at its widest.
Getting there need be no barrier as there are usually three sailings a day in sumnmer from its bigger neighbour Mykonos aboard the comfortable Delos Express. Mykonos itself has daily high-speed ferries from Athens taking about six hours, as well as direct flights from Athens and several other European cities.
Getting to UNESCO World Heritage Site Delos and its Archaeological Remains
Then it’s a scenic 30-minute voyage with good views back to Mykonos on the way. Timing allows the opportunity of spending up to 5 hours on Delos which in fact can only be visited on a day-trip. It has no hotel and its permanent population of 50 includes archaeologists and custodians of the World Heritage Site. Many older people arrive on guided tours from cruise ships.
Tips for Older People visiting UNESCO World Heritage Site Delos
The World Heritage Site is basically divided into two parts, the Sanctuary Area and Mount Kynthos. There is no set route around and most visitors tend to go straight to the Sanctuary Area which is a short flat stroll ahead of the entrance kiosk and shop.
However the best route is to head to the right and visit the Mount Kynthos area first, avoiding the biggest crowds and tackling the steepish climb while still fresh. It’s a good 20 minutes walk up past the remains of an ancient amphitheatre and various residential buildings. A track leads up to the top of the mountain which is 112 metres high.
To cope with the heat, a good supply of water and high factor sun-cream is essential. Walking shoes are recommended too as the tracks are dusty and rough.
Archaeological Remains and Mystical Scenery on UNESCO World Heritage Site Delos
Visitors who climb to the summit of Mount Kynthos are not only rewarded by a wonderful 380-degree view but can begin to sense why Delos is so special. It was the spiritual centre of Ancient Greece, having traditionally been regarded as the birthplace of the god Apollo and his sister Artemis.
As a result this remote wind-lashed island, the smallest of the Cyclades islands, became a pilgrimage centre in the 7th century BC.
Delos was Trading Hub of the Cyclades
By the 4th century it had developed into the trading hub of the Cyclades which had their treasury there. Later it grew into a major port for slaves, with as many as 10,000 a day being traded there around 200 BC.
Sacked by the Romans and occupied for nearly 1000 years by Turks and then pirates, the island was forgotten until French archaeologists began excavations, which continue today, in the late 19th century.
These have revealed temples and shrines, an amphitheatre, a terrace of heraldic lions, a sacred lake and the ancient harbour. Smaller items including pottery and a colourful mosaic are shown in the island's excellent museum.
Seniors Will Find Ancient Remains and Mystical Scenery on Delos
The extensive archaeological remains on Delos trace the island’s long and remarkable history from its start at the time of Ancient Greece.
Seniors who make the effort to travel to this small sunbaked island are amply rewarded not only because of its archaeological remains but also its timeless mystical scenery.
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