Delphi

<p><b>A comprehensive narrative history of the ancient world's center from its founding to its modern rediscovery</b><br><br>The oracle and sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi were known as the omphalos&#151;the center or navel&#151;of the ancient world for more than 1000 years. Individuals city leaders and kings came from all over the Mediterranean and beyond to consult Delphi's oracular priestess; to set up monuments to the gods; and to take part in competitions.<br><br>In this richly illustrated account Michael Scott covers the history and nature of Delphi from the literary and archaeological evidence surrounding the site to its rise as a center of worship to the constant appeal of the oracle despite her cryptic prophecies. He describes how Delphi became a contested sacred site for Greeks and Romans and a storehouse for the treasures of rival city-states and foreign kings. He also examines the eventual decline of the site and how its meaning and importance have continued to be reshaped.<br><br>A unique window into the center of the ancient world <i>Delphi</i> will appeal to general readers tourists students and specialists.</p>