Amazing Mykonos and the Sacred Island of Delos

Everyone is familiar with Mykonos, one of the most stunning and traveled islands of the Cyclades in Greece. Well known for its party atmosphere and beaches such as Paradise and Super Paradise. Lots of clubs that attract celebrities and stay open till dawn.

We all admire the famous little Venice and the 16th-century windmills, which sit on a hill above Mykonos town.

But do you know the UNESCO Heritage site of Delos?

According to Greek mythology, this small island located in the center of the Aegean Sea is considered “the most sacred of all islands”. So sacred that they did not allow the dead to be buried there. Legend has it that Apollo and Artemis -Gods of day and night respectively were born there.

The entire island is one vast archaeological site where we can still see traces of various civilizations. The monuments that have been excavated from the Apollonian sanctuary and the town reflect the grandeur of the sacred island and illuminate past civilizations.

Due to its location in the center of the Aegean sea, it attracted commercial activity and was declared a free port of the eastern Mediterranean. It quickly became the greatest commercial center needed to build their luxurious dwellings. The richly decorated mosaic floors and frescoes are a testimony to this.

Today, one can climb to the summit of the island to capture a 360 degree view of the Cycladic islands which make a full circle around Delos. Many say this is where the Cyclades (meaning circle) got their name.

The site is located just a short ferry ride from Mykonos and dates from the 7th century BC and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1990.

For more inspiration watch this short film my Rick Steves.