The Athenian Treasury

I have traveled to Greece many times and have visited many, many archaeological sites. I have to say that the Treasury of the Athenians is in the top five favorite buildings. First, it’s an astoundingly beautiful building with such amazing symmetry and elegance. It’s historic and ties the Athenian democracy to the Pythian oracle. Of course, it’s a must see when visiting Delphi.

Can be found along the Sacred Way leading up to the Temple of Apollo within the Delphi Archeological Site. It is used to house offerings for Apollo. Some restoration seems to have been made, but the original structure still looked pretty intact. There’s a small platform in front of the Treasury for viewing the mountains opposite the Delphi site as well.

The most complete monument from ancient greek times still stands! Amazing.

The Athenian Treasury is standing. Nice to see more or less how it looked like before. I believe it’s been restored due to the presence of lighter color blocks

The Treasury of the Athenians had enough of its original building material preserved to allow for its almost complete reconstruction. Designed to hold the multitude of Athenian offerings to the Delphi oracle. The building was constructed entirely of Parian marble and had a Doric frieze decorated with 30 metopes. To the left of the treasury, in a highly visible triangular area the Athenians displayed the actual spoils from the battle of Marathon. A large inscription at its front described what the visitors were witnessing: "The Athenians to Apollo from the spoils of the Persians at the Battle of Marathon."

This structure was used as an offering to the Pythia, the high priestess by the Athenians. Much of it is in tact with parts of it restored. It sits close to the temple of Apollo. You will not miss it as you are coming up the complex towards the temple. There are panels describing the treasury and its significance.

The Athenians built the Treasury most probably after 490 B.C. in order to thank the god Apollo for their victory at the battle of Marathon.

Although info says it closes at 8pm ( changes depending on time year) the staff will be herding you out at least a 1/2 hour before closing so do not come late. Give at least 2 hours to see it all, more if want to spend much time in the museum.