Explore the ancient stadium of Delphi

Ancient Stadium of Delphi

Ancient Stadium of Delphi | Home of the Pythian Games

The Oracle of Delphi was not the only attraction that drew people across Ancient Greece to this sanctuary. Every four years, athletes from across the Greek world flocked here in droves to compete in the Panhellenic Pythian Games, which were held at the Delphi stadium. Set on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, high above the Sanctuary of Apollo, the stadium could seat 6,500 people and is widely considered the best preserved ancient stadium in Greece.

How to access the ancient stadium of Delphi?

Access to the ancient stadium of Delphi is included in the Delphi tickets.

Ancient Stadium of Delphi | Quick facts

Address: Delphi 330 54, Greece | Find on map

Location: On the hillside above the main Delphi temple complex, about 0.5 km to the north-west

Date of construction: 5th or 4th century BCE

Function: Location of the Pythian Games,

Dimensions: 178 meters x 25.5 meters wide

Capacity: 6,500 spectators

What were the Pythian Games?

The Pythian Games were one of four Panhellenic sports tournaments held in Ancient Greece, second in importance only to the Olympic Games. They were held once every four years, two years after the Olympics.
According to legend, the games were started by Apollo after he killed Python, the serpent that was the guardian of Delphi, and claimed the site for his Oracle.
The first Pythian Games are believed to have been held in the 6th century BCE, around 582 BCE. They continued to be held up to the 4th century AD.
The games spanned a week. Since they were held in honor of Apollo, they began with a re-enactment of Apollo slaying Python, to celebrate his victory.
Athletes competed in many sports including chariot racing, foot races and track events, wrestling, boxing, the pentathlon (long jump, javelin throwing, discus throwing, a foot race, and wrestling), and pankration (a combination of boxing, wrestling, and martial arts).
Unlike the Olympian Games, women could also compete in the Pythian Games.

Architecture of the ancient stadium of Delphi

The Delphi stadium was built in the shape of a long rectangle – 178 meters long and 25.5 meters wide – with hemispherical ends. Its width accommodated tracks for 17 to 20 athletes.
When it was constructed in the 5th or 4th century BCE, it had earthen seats. There was a designated area for judges, with seats that had backs. The tiered stone seats that you see today were added in the 2nd century AD by Herodes Atticus, a Roman senator. They are made of Parnassus limestone.
Herodes Atticus also added a stone arch above the stadium entrance on the eastern side. Its pillars survived and are still standing today.
The stadium was built into the slope of the hill. Its long north side was cut into the rocky hillside and had 12 tiers of seats. The southern side was supported by a specially built walled terrace and had six tiers.
Apart from the stone seats, the stadium’s starting line, made of slabs of paved stone, is almost intact and is its best preserved element.

Frequently asked questions about the ancient stadium of Delphi

What are the timings of the ancient stadium of Delphi?

The timings of the stadium are the same as the Delphi archaeological site. From April 1 to August 31, the stadium is open from 8am to 8pm. From September 1 to October 31, the timings reduce by 30 minutes every two weeks to accommodate the shorter daylight hours. From November 1 to March 31, the site is open from 8:30am to 3pm.

How can I access the Delphi stadium?

The stadium is located hill on the hillside, above the main sanctuary. To reach it, you have to hike up the path leading from the sanctuary beyond the theater. It typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes to climb up to the stadium.

Does the guided tour of Delphi cover the stadium as well?

The guided tours take you through the entire sanctuary of Delphi, including the ancient stadium.

Can I enter the stadium?

The stadium is an ancient archaeological site. To preserve it as intact as possible, you cannot enter the stadium but you can see it entirely from the sides.

Is the stadium accessible by wheelchair?

The steep uphill path and the long climb leading up to the stadium make it unsuitable for wheelchair navigation.