(The Ruins of Delos)
During your stay in Mykonos, you should definitely seize the opportunity to take the thirty minute ferry ride to the island of Delos. While the island, today, is not inhabited, Delos was one of the most important trade cities in the known world during the second and first century BC. Delos is also more prominently known for its rich mythological history, as this was, according to mythology, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Today, the island is one of the most important historical and archeological sites in the Mediterranean. The island is open to tourists and there are guided tours around the island and a Museum on the island that has some some of the ruins there to preserve. From Mykonos, the round trip ferry costs 20 euros and then the cost to walk around the island is 12 euros without a tour guide (half off if you show your student ID). For a guided tour, the trip costs about 50 euros. While there are not extensive signs and information around the ruins, it is totally possible to get around the island without a tour guide.
(The Ruins of the Temple of Hermes)
The best time to go to Delos is around 5 in the afternoon and explore the island until the last ferry leaves at 7:30. By that point in the afternoon, the weather is cooler and the lighting is better for pictures. It takes about an hour to get around the island if you are planning on just seeing the ruins and not exploring the museum as well. Like most places in the Mediterranean, Delos’ terrain is very rocky and mountainous so bring water and comfortable walking shoes.
Probably one of the most interesting ruins is the Temple of Isis. Not only was a major part of the structure still intact, but also, the temple sits high upon a hill so the view is absolutely breathtaking. Something unique about the island of the Delos is that the temples and ruins left on the island are not strictly dedicated to the Classical Olympian Greek gods and goddesses but other deities of the Ancient world. For example, Isis was the Egyptian goddess of health, wisdom, and good fortune and the sailors on the island built a temple to bring good fortune to them as they embark on journeys.
(The Remains of the Temple of Isis)
Another great ruin is the House of Dionysis. This house is different from the others as the building has tall walls and marble columns that surpass the walls heights. However, the most iconic feature of this house is the Hellenistic mosaic decoration on the floor. The mosaic features the god, Dionysus, carrying a wreath with vines and grapes around his neck, on a tiger. This is fitting because he is the god of wine.
(The Mosaic Art in the House of Dionysus)
If you have the chance to go to island of Delos during your Greek travels, this place is definitely a must-see. The island is enriched with such marvelous historical and mytholgoical treasures that will peak anyone's interest.
