Parnassus is a mountain with history. Parnassus - sacred mountain
Greece, Mount Parnassus.
1 600 - 2 300 m.
Parnassus- mountain range in Central Greece. On its slope are ancient Delphi - the "navel of the Earth" - with the temple of Apollo, where the mysterious priestess Pythia predicted fate on behalf of God himself. The Kastal spring dedicated to the Muses also originates here. Parnassus is a mountain of muses and a symbol of poetic art.
The center "Parnassus" is a favorite vacation spot for residents of the capital of Greece, as it is located only 180 km from Athens. The skiing season lasts from December to April.
Modern lifts in 5 minutes will allow you to reach the highest points, from where you can go down 20 ski slopes(including those with FIS-classification) with a length of 600 and up to 4,000 m. The ski area on Mount Parnassos is located at altitudes with a difference of 1,600 - 2,300 m, and this is the largest and best organized ski center in the country.
The construction of the Ski Center here was started in 1975 and completed in 1976. And in 1981, construction work was completed in Kellaria. After 6 years, the Hermes lift linking the regions of Fterolaca and Kellaria was launched. While Parnassos remains a favorite place ski holidays Athenians. Skiers and snowboarders, especially during the weekend, come here by the hundreds. And this is not surprising, since the Center has twenty tracks with a total length of 14 km. 16 of them are from 600 m to 4 km, with 13 for beginners and advanced skiers, and 3 “black” for masters. At the same time, its infrastructure (cafes, service, rental, first aid stations at Fterolaca and Kellaria stations) is such that it provides a quick service to a large number of visitors. Another advantage of the Center is the daily operation of all facilities with a lower ski pass. The center offers traditional food and spirits in Fterolaka and Kellaria with convenient self-service restaurants and coffee shops.
There are no hotels in the ski area. The Greeks explain their absence by the need for the development of adjacent communities and municipalities, so skiers leave for the night to nearby villages (maximum distance - 20 km) with very good hotels and cottages. For example, in resort town Arahovo, where tourists usually stay, is very interesting night life. In cafes, bars, nightclubs, you can not only eat delicious food, but also listen to music for every taste: from folk to jazz. Unusual winter travel You can combine with an excursion to the capital - Athens, to see the world famous antique monuments architecture.
Where was the center of the earth? What mountains were considered sacred and where did the Muses live? Today you have the opportunity to conquer snow-capped peaks, which our ancestors looked at with reverent awe - because the Gods lived there.
Mount Parnassus was considered the center of the earth, just as Delphi was recognized as the center of the pan-Hellenic state in religious terms. In a broad sense, Parnassus means a mountain range starting from Eta and heading southeast, as the border of Locris and Boeotia with Phokis; this mountain range reaches the very Corinthian Sea, under the name Kirfis (now Sumalies). Its highest point is the Delphic Parnassus, with the peaks of Tiforei and Lykorea (now - Liokura, 2459 m), as a result of which it is called two-peaked. Parnassus is covered with forest, and its peaks are covered with snow.
The main temple of Parnassus is dedicated to Apollo, alleys of laurels and cypresses grow around it. The legend says that the nymph Daphne turned into a laurel, who liked Apollo and preferred to turn into an evergreen shrub than to be his girlfriend.
At the Delphic temple there were many gorges and cliffs; here was the famous Kastal spring, dedicated to Apollo and the muses, as a result of which Parnassus itself was considered the seat of the muses. Many legends and mythical stories follow this name from ancient times, and this mountain was once considered sacred. Lycorrhea and Tiforea are the most high peaks. The mountains themselves are covered with forest, and the peaks, surprisingly, are all covered in snow. Therefore, Parnassus is proud of its ski resorts, but more resorts- monuments of unique historical value and located not far from the slopes of the mountain.
On Mount Liokura, one of the two peaks of Parnassus, there was stalactite cave, which the ancient Greeks called the Korikian cave; unbridled Bacchic festivities were held near it.
And who does not know the expression "navel of the Earth"? It is by visiting Parnassus that vacationers will be able to go on an excursion to this marble monument, which depicts ribbons pulling it. Among the Greeks, this stone was considered the fulfiller of all desires and was called Omphalos. According to legend, Zeus released two eagles, deciding to determine where the center of the earth and the birds met exactly above Delphi. Also in Delphi, you should definitely visit the temple of Apollo, the Sacred Square, the treasury of the Athenians and Archaeological Museum where you can admire the beautiful antique statues. There is a lot of vegetation in the vicinity of the temple of Apollo, avenues of cypresses and laurels surround it. And entering the temple, you need to take a bath in the source, called Kastalsky, which has the effect of rejuvenation and healing. Kastalsky spring (Kastalsky key) - a spring on Mount Parnassus, near Delphi. According to one version, the name of the source comes from the name of the nymph Castalia, who, in order to avoid the persecution of Apollo, rushed into this source. The Castalian key was used to perform ritual ablutions by pilgrims when visiting Delphi, as well as by the Pythia before the start of her divination.
The history of Arahova is connected with the terrible battle of the Greeks with the Turkish army. In 1826, the commander Georgios Karaiskakis defeated the army of Mustafa Bey on Parnassus. As a trophy, he took 300 heads of Turks, which he sent to Athens as a gift to the government. The anniversary of the battle is celebrated in Arachov even now.
The territory of the mysterious Ancient Hellas attracts tourists not only fabulous islands described in ancient Greek myths, picturesque coastal cities but also developed ski resorts. Most ski areas are located on the slopes majestic mountain Parnassus. The ski resort of the same name Parnassus is considered the best in Greece, there are modern ski lifts and child Center, equipped trails, equipment rentals and several shops. The only negative is the lack of hotels, so skiers are forced to stay in the adjacent towns - Arachova and Delphi.
The oldest in Greece is considered to be the ski resort of Seli, which has been operating since 1934, located in the immediate vicinity of Thessaloniki. It is distinguished by equipped slopes on the slopes of Mount Vermio, where both beginners and experienced skiers can ski, cross-country skiing tracks and its own snow park. And around the Seli resort there are many traditional mountain villages, where you can taste local wine and get acquainted with fantastic cuisine.
The word "delphi" goes back to the Indo-European "delphos" - "bosom", "womb". From here come the words "delphos" - "brother" or "one-womb", and "dolphin" - "newborn baby". The reason for this name, apparently, is related to the proximity to the temple of Apollo, the Navel of the Earth.
In 1976, the construction of a ski resort on Parnassus was completed. And the length of the ski slopes stretched for fourteen kilometers. There are trails for both professionals of this sport and beginners. thrill. On Parnassus, the season lasts from mid-December to the end of April. All 20 slopes of the resort are located at an altitude of 1600 m - 2300 m above sea level between highest peaks mountains Parnassus - Liakura and Gerondovrachos. Here are two of the most famous ski centers of Parnassus - Fterolaka and Kelaria. The total length of the slopes is 14 km, of which half are slopes for beginner skiers. The easiest "blue" slopes Tilemakhos, Iraklis, Ira 1, Pan have a gentle and wide descent. The route is concentrated in the town of Arachova, located near Parnassus. It is here that the skiers of Parnassus mainly stop. In Arachov, nightclubs and bars are open all night, where you can not only taste delicious food, but also listen to musical compositions of various styles, from folklore to jazz.
As for entertainment and gifts, in Arachov, local needlewomen make carpets by hand, which are nice to give to loved ones as a souvenir from Parnassus. And after tasting local wines, eating them with cheeses that are prepared right there, you will leave an indelible impression about your vacation on Parnassus.
In Greece during the Hellenic period, there were many myths and legends dedicated to the twelve Olympian gods, their servants or heroes. As a result of these beliefs, a large number of various temples, and elevated to the rank of sacred individual natural objects. For example, only sacred mountains three in Greece: Olympus, where, in fact, they lived, according to ancient Greek mythology, gods led by Zeus, Parnassus - the favorite mountain of the god Apollo and his muses, as well as Athos (this mountain became sacred after the adoption of Orthodoxy by Greece, the so-called Autonomous monastic state is located on its territory).
Geographic location of Mount Parnassus
Mount Parnassus in Greece is the “center of the earth”, according to legend, two eagles met near this mountain, released by Zeus at the same time to different parts of the world. The stone over which they met was called the omphalos and was preserved in the temple of Apollo at Delphi on Mount Parnassus.
Strictly speaking, Mount Parnassus is not really a mountain, but a whole mountain range, which is integral part mountain range Pingdu and stretched in the direction from south to east. The highest point of the Parnassus mountain range is Mount Liakura, whose height is 2457 m above sea level.
At an altitude of 570 meters above sea level, on the southeast side of Mount Parnassus, is the city of Delphi. Small, with an area of only about 315 sq. km and a population of no more than 2.5 thousand people, the city of Delphi, however, is world famous and is even on the list world heritage, due to the fact that in its place are the ruins of the temple of Apollo (as well as many other ancient structures) and the famous Delphic oracle. In the area of Delphi, Mount Parnassus, the Pythian Games were previously held, the beginning of which, according to legend, was laid by Apollo himself.
Journey to Mount Parnassus
Going on a tour of Greece and planning a trip to Delphi Mount Parnassus, you should not limit your visit to this area to one day. Mount Parnassus makes an indelible impression, so you can stay here longer, especially if the trip is organized in winter period.
Of course, the main historical sights are concentrated in the area of the settlement of Delphi on Mount Parnassus, but, enriched with cultural knowledge and impressions, you can also see natural sights. In 1938, a national natural Park Greece, its territory covers huge area- more than 3.5 thousand hectares. Remarkable relic trees and plants covering the slopes of the mountain, as well as the richest fauna are preserved here: many species of birds of prey, wolves, wild boars, foxes, weasels, etc. There are also many caves here. beautiful waterfalls and springs, the most famous of which is the Kastalsky spring, located in the Delphi region of Mount Parnassus.
In addition to Delphi, traditional Greek villages located on Mount Parnassus, where you can learn more about the life of the population, which in these parts has changed little over the centuries.
Mount Parnassus - for risk lovers
For those who like to relax actively, on Mount Parnassus organized ski resort which operates from December to early May. The resort is located near the highest point of Mount Parnassus at an altitude of 1600 - 2250 meters. Hundreds of people come here every year to ride skiing and snowboarding at the amateur and professional level.
On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, you can also make walking tours. A variety of routes with difficulty corresponding to the E4 category have been developed and tested here.
Parnassus is one of the most famous mountains in the world. In ancient times it was considered sacred mountain Apollo, where the nymphs lived. This is one of the most high mountains in Greece.
Her highest point Liakura reaches 2459 m. In winter, Parnassus and its environs is a popular ski resort, where mainly residents of Athens come, which are located 180 km from Arachova, the center of the skiing of Parnassus. At 25 km from Arachova there is a lift that leads almost to the very top. In summer you can climb to the top of Parnassus. This is a very interesting hike for two or three days, in one day it is still tiring, although there were heroes. But it seems to me that without special sports training or without a specially ordered transport, this ascent cannot be made in one day.
To the top of Parnassus - Liakuro
To Parnassus by car
You can climb to the very top of Parnassus, Liakura, from July to the end of September, when it is practically devoid of snow. There are two ways - from Arachova by car to the end of the road, and then to Liakura for an hour and a half along a rocky path sharply upwards. Of course, a four-wheel drive jeep is required for such a road trip.
To Parnassus on foot
Fully hiking route starts from a completely different side - from the village of Tiforea along the majestic Velitsa gorge. This path will take about 8 hours one way, so during daylight hours even at the end of June it will not be possible to meet.
It is better to go with a tent, slowly and go from Tiforea to Itea through.
In the Velitsa Gorge you can see huge waterfalls Tsares.
The elevation difference is more than 2400 m, the ascent is very steep. Without a tent, this hike is not possible for me.
The village of Tiforea itself is easily accessible by public transport. Tiforea is located on railway Athens-Thessaloniki. Not all trains on this route stop at the small station of Kato Tiforea, so you need to find the right one and arrive the night before. From there it is about 5 km to the village itself. Not so far - you can walk, however, up.
In addition, Tiforea is located on the old national road Athens-Lamia, but unfortunately, most buses go around, along the seashore.
Tiforea is divided into a station town - Kato Tiforea and a traditional village on the slopes of Parnassus with stone houses, ancient fortress walls, a castle and a traditional watermill. Ancient walls, castle and mosaic on the floor in the church of St. John belong to the 3rd - 4th century AD. At the beginning of the Velitsa Gorge there is an old water mill.
Nearby are the churches of Abba Zosima and St. George and the cave of Odysseus - there are signs everywhere.
Already from Kato Tiforei you will see the beginning of the Velitsa gorge. From there, five kilometers along flat terrain, bypassing only the fields, and now you are already in front of the entrance to the gorge. At the entrance to the gorge is the church of St. Elijah among the majestic western slopes. Further along the path, which will run into the church of St. George. There you need to turn to the stream, cross it and go out to another church - St. John. The locals say that it will take 1.5 hours to get there. From the church you need to go a little up, and the path will become better. This trail leads to the Tsares waterfalls. It is said to be part of the trans-European E4 trail that leads across Europe from Spain to Athens, and at this point the trail is visible and passable. It will take another two hours to reach the waterfall.
Whether you reach the top or decide to turn back earlier, this walk will be unforgettable - magnificent cliffs, wild fir trees, peace and quiet away from the city.
Descent to Delphi and Kirra along the E4 trail
Having climbed up the E4 trail in Tiforea, you can go down it towards Delphi, because this trail also passes there. It goes to the sea in the Kirra area, from where you can go to Patras, and then to Crete, where the trail actually leads, but with a big transport break in trekking - a ferry trip. So, if you decide to go on a multi-day trip with a tent, plan your first stop at the end of the forest on Liakura from Tiforea. The next day you will reach the summit and begin your descent to Delphi. To do this, passing the highlands with its steppe and ski resort, you will find yourself in the village of Kalyvia Arahovas. Note that next right above locality Croki will have another attraction - the cave of Korikeo Andro, where the secret sanctuary of Pan was located, where there is beautiful place for an overnight stay. The cave itself also deserves attention - you can go down into it and inspect the stalactites. It's even more ancient place than Delphi, perhaps. To Delphi from there - half a day's journey. If you leave the cave in the morning, you can see the ruins Delphic oracle and museum until they close. You will also have time to go down to the sea - down to Kirra.
Of course, one should take into account the height difference, and therefore the temperature. In some gorges, snow does not melt even in summer. It is necessary to have closed windproof clothing. You should also take care of warming for the evening, since as soon as the sun sets behind the slope, the northern cold reigns even on the hottest days of the year. If you are planning an overnight stay on a mountainside, then you need to take even more clothes. Take a reliable flashlight with you, preferably two.
What is Parnassus? For many years (and even centuries) this word has been synonymous with art and cultural figures. In ancient times, this was the name of the mountain, from which, in fact, it all began. Legendary and more prosaic details about her, we will present to you.
What is Parnassus?
The name Parnassus comes from pre-Greek times and, apparently, refers to the Hitto-Luvian languages. It is assumed that their word parnassas comes from the word "house" or "temple" and is interpreted as "the mountain where the god dwells."
At the same time, there is another version, according to which, the name is the Paleo-Balkan word "locust" - an epithet denoting Apollo. It was with this god, the patron of the arts, that the ancient Greeks connected the mountain. Subsequently, the term was transferred to the cultural figures themselves.
In the 19th century, the literary movement of the Parnassus school arose in France. It included Theophile Gauthier, Lecomte de Lisle, Georges Lecomte, Sully Prudhomme. Their work was close to Verlaine, Baudelaire, Rimbaud, and in Russia their poems were translated by Bryusov, Voloshin, Bunin, Zhukovsky, etc.
Mountain in Greece
Parnassus is one of the largest mountain ranges mainland Greece and belongs to the large massif of Pindus. It is located in the central part of the country, and stretches from the top of Eta to the Gulf of Corinth. Geographically, it belongs to the nome (prefecture) of Phocis.
On the slopes of the mountain is modern city Delphi, as well as the ruins of the ancient village of the same name. Nearby are the villages of Itea and Arachova. The top of Mount Parnassus is bifurcated. The highest peak, Liakura, has a height of 2547 meters, the second peak, Tiforea, reaches 2395 meters.
The foothills and slopes of the mountain are covered with Mediterranean vegetation, which turns into coniferous forests and alpine meadows. Like most other massifs, this one is composed of limestone rocks and has bauxite deposits. Due to the peculiarities of the climate and rather high altitude, rocky peaks are steadily covered with snow from December to April. Opens here in winter ski center"Parnassus".
mountain myths
What is Parnassus? Ancient Greek shrine, the shrine of Dionysus, Themis and Gaia, the abode of Apollo and the nine muses. There are many myths associated with this mountain. Hellenic pilgrims visited it to pray to the gods and learn about the future, and ritual festivities were held near the Korikian cave.
According to legend, Zeus, the head of the Olympian gods, decided to send a flood on sinful people. As in biblical history not all died. Deucalion and his wife managed to escape. On the advice of his father, he built an ark. On the ninth day of the voyage, the ship stopped on Mount Parnassus. Deucalion made a sacrifice to Zeus, and he allowed the human race to be revived.
Another story is connected with Apollo - the god of arts and healing, the patron of the muses. He killed the evil serpent Python, which wrapped nine rings around Parnassus and did not give its inhabitants peace of mind. Apollo fired about a hundred arrows at him, after which Gaia sent him into exile for 8 years. In honor of the god, an oracle was founded in Delphi, where a priestess or Pythia predicted the future.
Mountain and its environs
To see with your own eyes what Parnassus is, you can go along one of hiking trails. They start from Delphi and Arachova or from the southeastern slopes of the mountain. Along the marked paths you can reach the Korikian cave or the Korykion Andron, dedicated to Pan. It is located at an altitude of 1370 meters, and it takes about 4 hours to walk to it.
Continuing the path, you can reach the top of Liakura. Tourists often stop for the night at the small farm of Kalivya, which is a forty-minute walk from the cave. The paths also lead upward from the side of the village of Titorei, located on the other side of the mountain. Dazzling landscapes open from the top, good weather You can see the Peloponnese and Mount Olympus perfectly.
A significant part of the massif is the Parnassus National Park. Kefalonia firs grow here, foxes, wild boars, wolves, badgers, vultures and golden eagles are found. On one of mountain slopes hosts the village of Arachova with an interesting Greek architecture. locals famous for making handmade carpets.
Below, at the foot of the mountain is the village of Itea. It is located on the very shore of the bay, eight kilometers from Delphi. In the past it was prosperous Trading port, now it is a typical tourist town. Nearby are extensive olive groves, which guests of Itea love to visit.
Delphi
The ancient city of Delphi, located on sacred mountain in Greece, was considered not only the main place of divination, but also the "Navel of the Earth", which symbolized the omphalos stone. The city was considered a pan-Greek sanctuary, and the local oracle had an impact on political and religious life.
The ruins of Delphi are located at an altitude of 700 meters, nine kilometers from the Gulf of Corinth. The remains of the temple of Apollo and Athena, an amphitheater, a gymnasium and a stadium are still preserved here. Around the 6th century BC, the Pythian Games were held in the city - the second large-scale event after the Olympic ones.
Modern Delphi is located near the archaeological sites. This is very small town which can be easily explored on foot. Of course, from a tourist point of view, it is of little interest; people stop there to see the ancient village and the mountain itself.
