Archaeological Museum of Delos

The basics

Excavations on the ancient trading port of Delos began in 1873, and the site covering 235 acres (95 hectares)—only 62 acres (25 hectares) have been explored so far—has offered up numerous treasures, including the famed Terrace of Lions, a row of marble lions that guarded Apollo’s sanctuary. Today nine replicas stand in their place, but you can admire five of the originals and other wonders dating from the seventh to the first century BC at the Delos Archaeological Museum. Join a Delos day trip from Mykonos to tour the archaeological site as well as the museum, where you can also see a bronze mask of Dionysus, wall paintings depicting boxing matches and great feasts, and a giant marble statue of Apollo.

Things to know before you go

• A must for archaeology buffs, most Delos tours and day trips include a visit to the excavations and museum and require a significant amount of time outdoors and on your feet. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Considering this is one of the most important classical sites in the world, there is surprisingly little explanatory signage among the Delos ruins, so visit the museum first for an understanding of the history and importance of the island.
• There is a small café inside the museum for drinks or snacks, and restrooms adjacent.
• The archaeological ruins are a challenge to navigate with a wheelchair, though the museum is accessible.

How to get there

The island of Delos, including the archaeological site and museum, can only be reached via ferry or private boat from nearby Mykonos. Book a ferry ticket on your own, or join a guided tour that includes transportation to avoid the hassle of arranging the logistics.

When to get there

The archaeological ruins and museum can be very crowded in the summer months, when temperatures reach their peak, as well. Try to schedule your visit in the cooler early morning or late afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat and throngs of visitors.

The History and Lore of the Ancient Island of Delos

In ancient Greek mythology, the tiny Cycladean island of Delos was the birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis; in thanks for their safe delivery, their mother vowed to make the island the richest community in Greece. Delos was first colonized in around 1100 BC as a sanctuary to Apollo. By 456 BC, the island was under Macedonian control and many of the surviving monuments of the archaeological site date from that era, when this thriving community of 25,000 people was a powerful trading port in the eastern Mediterranean. Delos lost its strategic importance in the first century BC, however, and was gradually abandoned.