TOUR
DESCRIPTION
     
Athena
Apollo
Demeter
Persephone
Hera
Zeus
 On this sacred journey you will connect with the
powerfully transformative energies
of the ancient temples that housed the Greek Mystery Schools and ancient oracle sites!
Receive the legacy of the great Gods and
Goddesses that shaped Western Civilization
and accept them as aspects of your own consciousness!
Explore the ancient temples and oracles to
connect with the palpable transformative energies:
ATHENS: City Tour,
including the Acropolis and Parthenon, dedicated to Athena
LEVADIA: The Oracle
of Trophonius
DELPHI: Sanctuary
of Athena, Temple of Apollo, the Oracle of Delphi
DODONA: The Oracle of Zeus
VRAVRONA:
Artemis
Temple
DELOS
ISLAND: Birthplace of Artemis and Apollo
ELEUSIS:
Site
of the Eleusinian Mystery School of Demeter, the Earth Mother Goddess,
and Persephone, Goddess of the Underworld, Death, and Regeneration
SPECIAL OFFERINGS!
Sacred
Ceremonies, Meditations & Initiations at the temples/sacred sites
TOUR
PERSONNEL
Featured Speaker & Tour Director: Andrea Mikana-Pinkham
Director
of Sacred Sites Journeys
Andrea has been
leading spiritual pilgrimages to sacred sites around the world since 1994. During this
spiritual pilgrimage she will
facilitate sacred ceremonies, meditations and initiation rituals to assist
you to connect with the powerful energies of the sacred sites and the Greek Gods
and Goddesses and the aspects which they represent within your consciousness, to
assist you in your personal growth.
Andrea
is a Lady Knight Templar and the North American Grand Prioress
of The International
Order of Gnostic Templars, a modern-day spiritual Templar Order dedicated to
the revival of the Goddess Tradition and Gnostic Wisdom.
As well, she is a trained Shamanic Practitioner,
the Reiki Grand Master of Ichi Sekai (One World) Reiki,
a Spiritual Counselor, and a Teacher in Seven Rays of Healing
School.
BRIEF TOUR ITINERARY
(For
a more detailed itinerary, scroll down)
(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Day 1. Wednesday, September 15. Arrive Greece; Welcome Dinner (D)
Arrive
Athens early morning on your own.
Clear Immigration, claim your bags, clear customs.
Meet our local Sacred Sites Journeys tour representative for group transfer to out hotel.
Transfer to our hotel.
Rest for the afternoon.
Welcome Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Athens.
Day 2.
Thursday, September 16. Athens City Tour (B)
Morning:
Athens City tour, including the Olympic Stadium, the Acropolis, and Parthenon
Lunch on your own.
Afternoon: Free time to explore on your own.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight Athens
Day 3.
Friday, September 17. To Levadia and Delphi (B/D)
Morning:
Depart Athens
Visit to Levadia and Oracle of Trophonius
Lunch on your own
Afternoon: Continue to Delphi
Visit site of Delphi
Check in at hotel
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Delphi.
Day 4.
Saturday, September 18. To Dodona (B/D)
Morning:
Visit to Museum at Delphi
Depart Delphi to Dodona
Lunch on your own.
Afternoon: Arrive Dodona.
Check in at hotel. Free time.
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Dodona.
Day 5.
Sunday, September 19. Dodona (B/D)
Full
day visit to ancient site of Dodona and the Oracle of Zeus
Lunch on your own.
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Dodona.
Day 6.
Monday, September 20. To Vravrona (B/D)
Morning:
Depart Dodona
Lunch stop. Lunch on your own
Continue to Vravrona. Check in at hotel
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Vravrona.
Day 7.
Tuesday, September 21. Free Time; Artemis Temple (B/D)
Morning:
Free time to rest and enjoy the hotel's spa facilities
Lunch on your own.
Afternoon: Visit nearby Artemis Temple
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Vravrona.
Day 8.
Wednesday, September 22. To Mykonos (B/D)
Morning:
Transfer to the airport. Flight to Mykonos
Arrive and transfer to hotel.
Afternoon: Lunch on your own.
Free time.
Group dinner at a local taverna.
Overnight Mykonos.
Day 9.
Thursday, September 23 - Fall Equinox! Delos Island (B/L)
Full
day visit to Delos, birthplace of Artemis and Apollo including box lunch.
Return to Mykonos
Dinner on your own.
Overnight Mykonos.
Day 10.
Friday, September 24. Return to Athens (B)
Morning:
Transfer to airport. Return flight to Athens.
Afternoon: Arrive and transfer to hotel.
Lunch on your own. Free time.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight Athens
Day 11.
Saturday, September 25. Eleusis; Free Time; Farewell Dinner (B/D)
Morning:
Visit to Eleusis, site of the famous Eleusinian Mysteries
Return to hotel
Afternoon: Lunch on your own. Free time.
Farewell Dinner.
Overnight Athens
Day 12.
Sunday, September 26. Depart Greece (B)
Morning
transfer to the airport
Check in for your international flight.
For a more detailed itinerary, scroll down!
TOUR ITINERARY
(B
= Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Day 1. Wednesday, September 15. Arrive Athens; Introductory
Meeting; Welcome Dinner (D)
IMPORTANT:
This tour is LAND ONLY. You are responsible to book your international flights to
and from ATHENS. Please arrive in Athens
by 9:00AM on Wednesday, September 15, 2009 in order to
connect with the group transfer to the hotel. Private transfers to the hotel at other
times can be arranged at an additional cost.
 Arrive in the morning, local time in Athens. This cosmopolitan city, where
the concept of democracy was born 2,500 years ago at the foot of the Acropolis, is very
alive and vibrant! The modern metropolis has kept its very unique atmosphere that reflects
the Athenians and their way of living, while at the same time adapting to the changes of
the 21st century. The memories of its ancient past abound, full of history and esoteric
teachings. We'll explore all of these aspects during our visits to the various temples and
other ancient buildings in the city.
The
Legend of How Athens Got Its Name: During the rule of
Cecrops, who was half-man and half-snake, Athens was considered the crown jewel of all
cities. Athena and Poseidon decided that they wanted the wonderful city as their own, and
they weren't opposed to fighting for it. Athena came up with an idea about who could claim
the city as theirs. She suggested that whoever gave the city the best gift would win and
that Cecrops would be the judge, and that his decision would be final. Poseidon went
first; he lifted his trident and struck the earth with it. A beautiful spring shot forth.
Unfortunately for Posiedon, the spring was of salt-water. Athena then buried an olive tree
in the city; it gave the Athenians olive, olive oil, and wood. Cecrops deemed Athena's the
better gift, and the city was thus named after her.
Proceed through
passport control and customs and meet our local tour representative. Transfer to our hotel
and check in. Take time to rest and relax before our Welcome Dinner at
our hotel. Overnight Athens.
Day 2. Thursday, September 16. Athens City Tour, including the Acropolis,
Free time (B)
 After breakfast we depart for our
morning City Tour of Athens. Our visit includes the Acropolis,
the original site of Athens, a limestone plateau overlooking the city and supporting the Parthenon,
the all-marble temple dedicated to Athena, Goddess of Wisdom, War, and Crafts.
Born full-grown
from the brow of her father, Zeus, Athena represents the power of
the mind, and thus sometimes may appear cold or purely mental, separated from
more feminine attributes, such as tenderness and maternal love. But She is not cold. She
was chosen as the Patroness of Athens, over Poseidon, god of the sea,
because she gave the sustaining olive tree to the Greeks. She was not only a warrior
Goddess, but also ruled over domestic crafts: the spindle, the loom, the
cooking pot, as well as all arts of civilization. She is the Goddess of the City, of
community and democracy. With her owl companion, Athena sees far with the
gray eyes of perspective and clarity. She does not act rashly, but wisely considers Her
strategies. Athena symbolizes the ability to conquer fear with intelligence and vision.
Long
a religious shrine and high fortress for the Athenian people, today the Acropolis is a UNESCO
World Heritage Site which honors the universal symbols of the classical spirit and
civilization. Its monuments form the greatest architectural and artistic complex
bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world. In the second half of the fifth century BCE,
Athens, following the victory against the Persians and the establishment of democracy,
took a leading position amongst the other city-states of the ancient world. In the age
that followed, as thought and art flourished, an exceptional group of artists put into
effect the ambitious plans of Athenian statesman Pericles and, under the
inspired guidance of the sculptor Pheidias, transformed the rocky hill
into a unique monument of thought and the arts. The most important monuments were built
during that time: the Parthenon, the Erechtheon, the Propylaea,
the monumental entrance to the Acropolis, and the small temple Athena Nike. We'll
explore those open to the public.
Afterwards we
return to the hotel. Lunch on your own. Then you have the afternoon free. Perhaps you'd
like to visit the Acropolis Museum, one of the most important in the
world. It houses masterpieces of the ancient Greek civilization, dedicated to the most
important of the Athenian sanctuaries. Dinner on your own. Overnight Athens
Day
3. Friday, September 17. To Levadia and Delphi (B/D)
 We check out of our hotel this morning
and depart Athens, on the way to Delphi. We stop at Levadia to visit the Oracle
of Trophonius, named after the Greek hero with a rich mythological tradition,
whose name means "to nourish".
The Oracle
overlooks the river Herkina which bubbles up from the springs of Lethe (forgetfulness) and
Mnemosyne (remembrance). We may also some of the offering niches in the cliffs as we walk
along the Herkina.
In Greek mythology, Trophonius was a son of King Eriginus. According to Pausanias, Greek
traveler and geographer of the 2nd century CE, they built a treasure chamber with a secret
entrance that only they knew about for King Hyprieus of Boeotia. They used the secret
entrance to then steal his fortune. The King laid a trap to catch the thieves, and
Agamedes was trapped. Trophonius cut off his brother's head so Hyprieus wouldn't know who
the body was, and then fled into the cave at Levadia and disappeared forever.
Later, when the Levadians suffered from a plague, they consulted the Oracle of Delphi, who
advised them that an unnamed hero was angry at being neglected, and that they should find
his grave and worship him in order to stop the plague. Several unsuccessful searches
followed. The plague continued until a shepherd boy followed a trail of bees into a hole
in the ground. Instead of honey, he found the ghost of the dead Trophonius, who became a
popular oracle for the people. He was also a proponent of sound Pythagorean doctrines and
also related dreams concerning the cosmos and the afterlife.
Pausanias also related details about the Oracle of Trophonius, which
stood on the side of a hill with an entrance so small that it seemed impossible for a
human being to enter. Here is his mind-bending account of the things that happened when
you went down into the holy place. First, during the night you are taken to the river
Herkyna by two local thirteen year old boys , called Hermai, who rub you with oil and wash
you. After this you are escorted by the
priests, not to the oracle straightaway, but to two streams which flow very close to each
other. First you have to drink the water of Lethe, so you will forget all your
current preoccupations. Then you drink the water of Mnemosyne, which makes you remember
what you see after you go down.
After looking at the statue of the god, which is only shown by the priests to those
visiting Trophonios, you worship it and pray. Then you proceed to the oracle, dressed in a
linen tunic, and wearing stout boots. The oracle is up the mountain, past the grove. Round
it is a circular white marble base, about one meter high and the size of a very small
threshing-floor. On this base are bronze spikes, held together by bronze cross-pieces. You
pass through a double door to enter the sanctuary. Inside is a man-made cave, shaped
rather like a bread-oven, with the entrance 2 meters high and about 4 meters across. There
is no fixed way down to the bottom of the cave, but when someone comes to Trophonios, they
bring you a thin, light ladder. After climbing down you find a horizontal hole between the
floor and the structure. The hole is about 25 centimeters wide, and 50 centimeters high.
The descender lies with his back on the ground, holding barley-cakes kneaded with honey,
pushes his feet into the hole, trying hard to get his knees into it. After his knees the
rest of his body is immediately sucked in, just as a large quick-flowing river will catch
a man in its eddy and suck him under.
After this those who have entered the shrine learn the future, not always
in the same way, but sometimes they see something, sometimes they hear it. The return
upwards is by the same hole, the feet sliding out first. After his ascent from Trophonios
the inquirer is again taken by the priests, who sit him on a chair called the chair
of Mnemosyne, not far from the shrine, and they ask him, when he's sitting there,
all he has seen or learned. After gaining this information they announced the Oracle and
then hand him over to his relatives. They lift him, paralyzed with terror and unconscious
both of himself and of his surroundings, and carry him to the building where he lodged
before.
We won't have to undergo this difficult situation, but instead will be able to
meditate to sit along the river, near the ancient place, and open our hearts and minds to
see if there might be a message for us.
Lunch
on your own with the group along the way.
We arrive in Delphi,  the
magnificent Temple of Apollo, located in a spectacular mountain setting,
in the afternoon. We explore the site, including the remains of the famous Oracle
of Delphi, the most prestigious oracle in the Graeco-Roman world for 2,000 years,
until it was closed by the Christian emperor Theodosius I (346?-395CE). Prophetic messages
and words of counsel from Python, the wise serpent son of the Mother Goddess
Delphyne, or from the Moon Goddess Artemis, were relayed through
their priestess daughters, the Pythonesses or Pythia. Myth states that the god Apollo murdered Delphyne and
claimed the shrine and the Pythia for himself, imprisoning the serpent seer in the
recesses of a cave beneath the temple. The historian Plutarch (46-120
CE), who served as high priest at the Oracle, said that this oracle remained popular while
others fell into disrepute because the gods declined to speak through the other oracles
who approached them because the questions they asked were too trivial, asking for advice
concerning love affairs and disreputable business transactions. He described how
the oracle worked: The priestess went into a small chamber where she inhaled
sweet-smelling fumes that were released from fissures in the rocks by the serpent deep
within the cave. The Pythia would go into a trance, seeing the future and issuing
predictions. Even though the oracle has not been "active" for centuries, it
still attracts a million visitors a year. "Magic" is still there! In order to receive
guidance from the Oracle during our visit, keep an open mind and listen with your
heart.
 Our last stop at Delphi is the Sanctuary
of Athena, Goddess of Wisdom. Take some meditation time to
connect with Her powerful energies, and invite in those attributes that will most serve
you on your spiritual life in your present life circumstances. Remember, She can assist
you to conquer your fears with intelligence and vision!
Afterwards we check in at hotel, where we later enjoy our group dinner. Overnight
Delphi.
Day 4. Saturday, September 18. To Dodona (B/D)
Before
we leave Delphi this morning we visit the excellent on-site museum. Afterwards we depart
to Dodona, with lunch on your own with the group along the way.
Later in the afternoon we arrive at Dodona, the oldest of the Pagan Greek
oracles, dating to the 3rd millennium BCE, located in the
mountains of northern Greece, 5 miles SE of the southern most tip of modern Albania and 30
miles inland from the Ionian Sea, dedicated to Zeus, the King of the Gods. Zeus was the sixth child
born to the Titans, Cronus and Rhea. He is the Supreme God and Ruler of all the Gods and
Goddesses who lived on Mt. Olympus. He became the undisputed master of the Universe, and
as the God of rain, drought, storms, and all weather. He was worshipped as the source of
heavenly signs. He called upon tempests and created storms, and kept the peace among the
family of Olympians. He is usually represented as an older, vigorous bearded man. But
representations of Zeus as a powerful young man also exist. His symbol is the thunderbolt.
His strengths are that he is highly powerful, strong, charming, persuasive, and his
weaknesses are that he gets in trouble over love affairs, and can be moody.
We
check in at
hotel. You have free time before our group dinner at the hotel. Overnight Dodona.
Day
5. Sunday, September 19. Dodona (B/D)
Today we enjoy a visit
to the ancient site of Dodona and the Oracle of Zeus. The oracle of Dodona was
presided over by Zeus Dodonaios, who uttered prophecies through oak
trees. Some legends also say it was through birds and vases of brass. Many writers have
noted the similarities between the rituals of Dodona and those of the Druid priests of
Britain and Gaul. The priest or priestess Oracle of Dodona sat upon the branches of the
sacred oaks and spoke at length about philosophy and religion, as well as answering the
questions of the pilgrims who came from distant places to consult it.
 The picturesque setting for the ruins of the Oracle
of Zeus is overlooked by the mountains of Tomaros and is nearly as dramatic as
Delphi! Legends says there was an oak grove near a year round stream which ran during the
day. There were three Priestesses who kept the shrine and interpreted the Oracle, known as
Selli. In later years there were both priests and priestess, known as Selloi.
The most ancient name for people of the area was also Selloi. The priestesses went
barefoot, never washed their feet and slept on the bare ground. The oracles were received
from the rustling of the branches of the holy oak tree by the bare-footed priests and
priestesses. Oak trees were considered sacred by many ancient people because they are
prone to lightning strikes and spots struck by lightning were thought of as sacred. Later
three elderly priestesses, named Peleiades ("Doves"), were appointed to be the
voice of the oracle.
When Herodotos visited Dodona in the 6th century BC, he was told a story of two black
doves coming from Thebes in Egypt. One of them founded the sanctuary of Zeus-Ammon in
Libya and the other settled in the oak tree at Dodona; it announced in human speech
that the oracle of Zeus should be built there. The Egyptian version of the story says that
two foreign women were being sold as slaves; one of them came to Dodona. Her foreign
language sounded like the 'twittering of birds' to the people who lived there. The
Greek word at the time for dove (peleiades) was the same as that for priestess or
prophetess, so that might be where the name of Dove came from.
The most curious of the oracles there were the "talking"
vases, or kettles that were made of brass and were so carefully fashioned that
it's said that when they were
struck they gave off sound for hours. Some writers have described a row of these vases and
have declared that if one of them was struck its vibrations would be communicated to all
the others, resulting in a terrifying din. Other authors describe a large single vase,
standing upon a pillar, near a column supporting the statue of a child holding a whip. At
the end of the whip were a number of swinging cords tipped with small metal balls, and the
wind, which blew incessantly through the open building, caused the balls to strike against
the vase. The number and intensity of the impacts and the reverberations of the vase were
all carefully noted, and the priests delivered their  oracles
accordingly. Eventually the priests mysteriously vanished and the oracle was served for
many centuries by three priestesses who interpreted the vases and interrogated the
sacred trees at midnight. The patrons of the oracles were expected to bring offerings and
to make contributions.
We
visit various areas of the site, including the impressive theater
surrounded by natural splendor, that was restored in the 1960's. Also the Stadium,
the venue for the athletic events of the Naia festival and games, which were as famous as
those at Olympia.
As we take our meditation time here, invite in the energies that Zeus
symbolizes: power, strength, charm, and persuasion. You can embody them and employ them in
your life to make things happen - big time! Now's a good time to focus on this as you
envision yourself a success in whatever it is you want to accomplish!
We return to
the hotel early afternoon, where you have time for lunch on your own. Then free time to
rest, integrate and reflect on your morning's energetic connections. Tonight our group
dinner is at the hotel. Overnight Dodona.
Day 6. Monday, September 20. To Vravrona (B/D)
After
breakfast we check out of the hotel and head back south to the Athens area. We travel
through the picturesque Greek countryside, stopping for lunch along the way. In the
afternoon we arrive at Vravrona and check in at our spa hotel, located
by the beach in the beautiful Vravrona Bay. Tonight we enjoy a group dinner at the
hotel. Overnight Vravrona.
Day 7. Tuesday, September 21. Free Time; Artemis Temple (B/D)
Sleep
in! You have free time this morning to rest and enjoy the hotel's spa facilities. Lunch is
on your own.
 In the afternoon we visit the nearby Artemis Temple in the tranquil countryside. Artemis as the daughter of
Zeus and Leto, and the sister of Apollo. This Greek Goddess of the hunt and the
moon, is not easily categorized. She is the deity of wild places, groves
and ponds and the Protectress of Animals. She was "whole
without a man," and was thus immune to falling in love. Artemis is the magic of
freedom, the woman who cannot be defined, for she is continually reinventing herself, as
the moon changes from night to night. She is also known as a healer, a midwife, a
champion of those set upon by circumstances that seem overwhelming. Artemis is
the spirit of the wild forest and the quiet glade, and her magic is in being true to the
self, a true "woman who runs with the wolves". She was renamed Diana, Queen of
Heaven, by the Romans.
First we visit
the little museum. Since the temple complex is also known as "The
Parthenon of the Bear Maidens", here we see images of children who once
studied at the temple; they were known as Artemis' "little bears". They danced for their goddess in sacred
processions, trying to make her happy for the death of one of her pet bears. One legend
relates that Iphigeneia, the daughter of the famous Mycenaen King
Agamemnon, lived here as a priestess of Artemis. She brought with her a wooden statue of
the goddess which was enshrined here for many years. Other stories say her father
sacrificed her to Artemis so that his ships could sail to Troy, while the local legend
relates that instead, she was "sacrificed" to a life in the temple and lived
here until she died. There is a broken, roofless cave that is said to be the remains of
her tomb. As well a small temple dedicated to her worship also stood here. At other
temples to Artemis there were only priestesses. However, at this site boys were allowed to
study. Thus in the museum we see their statues along with their female classmates. It's
also possible that boy-girl twins were permitted in acknowledgement of the relationship
between Artemis and her own twin brother, Apollo; or for Iphigeneia and
her own brother, Orestes, who are credited with founding the site in some tales.
During our time at her ancient temple, as you meditate upon Artemis, call in Her
qualities of decisiveness and self-esteem. Connect with Her confidence to inspire you to
manifest your dreams!
Time allowing, and if it's open, we might be able to visit a prehistoric acropolis near
the site that's been excavated, as well as a small Byzantine chapel with seldom-seen icons
painted on the walls.
We return to the hotel for our group dinner this evening. Overnight Vravrona.
Day 8. Wednesday, September 22. To Mykonos (B/D)
 After breakfast we check out of the hotel
and are off to the airport for our morning flight to Mykonos, one of the Cyclades
Islands. Hundreds of tiny chapels dot this blue and
white-washed island with its beautiful windmills. One of the most popular islands in
Greece, it's the most cosmopolitan of the
Greek Islands and attracts many visitors from all over the globe, including large numbers
of artists and intellectuals. We arrive and transfer to our hotel in Hora, the
island’s capital. 
The
afternoon is free for lunch on your own, and to explore. Take your own walking tour in the narrow
cobbled streets of the town. You'll pass by chic boutiques, elegant nightclubs and
white–washed houses. Be sure to visit Alefkandra, the “Venice” of Mykonos.
Its name derives from the wood-balconied mid-18th century homes of wealthy merchants and
sea captains that were built on the sea. Stop at a local hotel for a refreshment,
accompanied by Greek ‘meze’. A meze is not a meal course like an
appetizer; it's a dish, hot or cold, spicy or savory, often salty, that is served, alone
or with other mezethes, as a separate eating experience. And it's common for groups
of family and friends to gather or go out for mezethes, share several of these
delightful dishes, a drink, conversation, and laughter. The little plates are shared by
everyone at the table, which not only provides a wonderful variety of flavor and texture
sensations, but also creates the kind of happy, convivial atmosphere for which Greeks are
well known. Enjoy!
In the evening we
gather at our hotel and walk to a nearby taverna for our group dinner. Overnight
Mykonos.
Day 9. Thursday, September 23. Fall Equinox! Delos Island (B/L)
 On this auspicious day of the Fall Equinox, when the
energies of the sun are balanced, we depart Mykonos by boat to visit Delos,
the birthplace of the twins, Artemis and Apollo. We're
already familiar with Artemis from our visits to Her temple near Vravrona, as well as Her
sanctuary at Delphi. Here we can focus on Apollo, the son of Zeus, who is the god of arts,
archery, and divination. He represents order, harmony, and civilization in a way that most
other Olympian deities cannot quite equal. Apollo is most often associated with the
cultivated arts of music and medicine, and his role as the leader of the Muses establishes
him as a patron of intellectual pursuits. Apollo is always depicted as a beardless young
man. His attributes are the tripod, omphalos, lyre, bow and arrows, laurel, hawk, raven or
crow, and fawn. Although often associated with the sun, Apollo is not really a sun god.
Apollo is a god of healing, prophecy (oracles), the arts -- especially music (Apollo
taught Orpheus to play the lyre) -- and archery. His arrows could send plague, as happens
in the Iliad Book I.
The
sacred island was a major sacred site for the ancient Greeks, second in importance
only to Delphi. At its height, the site was covered in a variety of
temples and sanctuaries dedicated to many different gods and goddesses. On the barren and
hilly landscape, are many fascinating archaeological ruins. They consist of four main
areas. Time allowing, we'll visit all of them. (We have a boxed lunch, which we can enjoy
at the small tourist center in the Sanctuary of Apollo, avoiding the pricey restaurant.)
Sanctuary
of Apollo: This was the ancient heart of Delos. Today it's the
most important area for us as well. In ancient times it contained three great temples
dedicated to Apollo, as well as many other temples, altars and monuments. Nearby are the
Sacred Lake, Sanctuary of Dionysus, site museum and tourist pavilion. Unfortunately, very
little remains of the great temples today.
The Great Temple of Apollo, which was begun around 477 BCE, but was neglected after
the treasury was transferred to Athens, was finally completed in the 200s BCE. The Temple
of the Athenians (425-17 BCE) is next door. This temple was most likely home to the
Archaic statue of Apollo. The third temple, the Porinos Naos (6th century), was
where the treasure of the Delian League was
originally kept. (The league was an association of 173 5th-century BCE Greek city-states
under the leadership of Athens, whose purpose was to continue fighting the Persian Empire
after the Greek victory at the end of the Greco-Persian Wars.) On the north is the base of
a colossal marble Statue of Apollo from 7th century BCE, which Plutarch said was
destroyed when a bronze palm tree blew over onto it. It's likely that it was re-erected in
its present position. The base has several inscriptions, one being the original dedication
in Archaic letters, reading "I am of the same marble, statue and pedestal". The Temple
of Artemis (rebuilt c.179 BCE) lies on north end of sanctuary, on a site that had been
sacred since Mycenaen times. Many of the statues of Artemis that were found here are
displayed in the museum.
Maritime Quarter: This was the main residential area of Delos when the
city was at its peak of prosperity. We'll see the ruins of many beautiful mansions and
villas. Many of them were paved with fine mosaics; some still in situ. In the House
of the Masks and the House of Dionysus we can view mosaics of Dionysus, the god of
fertility, wine, and ecstasy.
 Theater District: In the
southern part of this area is the great classical theater of Delos. In
its heyday it seated 5500 people. There are beautiful houses with mosaic floors; the House
of the Dolphins has one depicting the gentle sea creatures.
Lion
District: This area occupies the north end of the ruins and is named for the
famous Terrace of the Lions (7th century BCE). Nine elegant marble lions guarded
the sanctuary, looking out to the Sacred Lake. The current statues are replicas; five of
the weathered originals are on display in the museum. The sacred swans and geese of Apollo
were kept in the oval Sacred Lake, which was drained in 1926. In the center is a
palm tree, commemorating the one Leto clutched while giving birth to her divine twins.
Beyond the Terrace of the Lions is a complex includes several courtyards, chapels, meeting
rooms, and shops that was used by an association of merchants from Beirut who worshipped
Baal, identifying him with the Greek god Poseidon, Lord of the Sea.
We return to
Mykonos in the later afternoon. You have free time for dinner on your own and to wander
about the island on your own.
Overnight Mykonos.
Day 10. Friday, September 24. Return to Athens (B)
We
leave Mykonos this morning on our return flight to Athens, arriving back in the capital
later morning. We transfer to our hotel and check in. You have time for lunch on your own.
Then explore more of Athens!
The National
Gallery houses a permanent collection of modern Greek painters and international
contemporary artists, and also includes large-scale sculptures.
 Perhaps you'd like to
go to the top of Mount Lycabettus, the green mountain rising out of the
center of Athens. You're in luck, and you don't have to climb it, as there is a small
train that will take you to the top. Once there, you'll be able to enjoy the amazing view,
as well as have a meal in the great cafe.
Behind the Tomb
of the Unknown soldier at the top of Syntagma (Constitution) Square is one of Athens'
greatest treasures, the National Gardens. You can spend hours wandering around the
shaded pathways of this tropical paradise in the middle of the concrete jungle of Athens
and and take in the plants, flowers and trees that have been collected from all over
the world.
Dinner on your own tonight. Overnight Athens
Day 11. Saturday, September 25. Eleusis; Free Time; Farewell Dinner (B/D)
In the
morning we visit Eleusis, the temple complex of the most famous of the Greek
Mystery Schools, dating back to the 5th century CE, and the last to be destroyed.
The teachings of the Eleusinian Mysteries centered around the myth of Demeter,
the Great Mother Goddess of Agriculture and Vegetation, and her daughter Persephone,
the Goddess of Death and Regeneration.
 Their well-known myth: Persephone was
abducted into the underworld by Hades. In a rage of grief, Demeter withdrew her energy
from the earth, and autumn and winter came to the land. Demeter wandered through the dying
earth, searching for her daughter. Eventually, Persephone was restored to her mother for
part of each year, and with Demeter's joy, spring came again. Essentially, the rites imitated the
agricultural cycles of planting the seed, nurturing its growth, and harvesting the grain.
On the esoteric level the drama enacted for the initiates symbolized the odyssey of the
human soul, its descent into matter, its earthly sufferings, its terror in the darkness of
death, and its rebirth into divine existence.
The Eleusinian
Mysteries were the most profound and sacred festival of the Greeks. The initiatory
rites were performed only for select participants, and were secret, their mysteries thus became
shrouded in the ancient mists of the past. The initiates were sworn to secrecy on pain of
death. Apparently,
no one ever broke their vows and described the details. Therefore there is no conclusive
evidence available today that describes the scope of these esoteric teachings.
Edward A. Beach writes in The Eleusinian Mysteries: What
happened in the sacred ceremony? Initiation into the mysteries, which brought about a
spiritual birth, thus regenerating the whole individual. This was intended to reunite the
personal self with the divine spirit of the cosmos as a whole. It was often accompanied by
and aided the bringing about of enlightened comprehension. It also led to the development
of intuitive insight and spiritual will-power as well as a deepening realization of
oneness with all that exists, as well as a growing power to draw upon that oneness for the
benefit of others. What actually were the revelations made is entirely unknown. The solemn
vows, under the penalty of death, ensured that secrecy was maintained. Archaeologists and
historians have speculated on these secrets, but no-one disclosed what occurred and what
was revealed in the Anaktoron. Some contemporary writers however have provided hints as to
what was revealed."
Among these ancient energies, we have time for meditation. Open up to receive your initiation
into the esoteric mysteries of the Great Mother Goddess. She will bless your
spiritual growth, as you look inside, let go, and let Her fill the void.
Return to the hotel. Lunch on your own. You have free time this afternoon to explore more
of Athens on your own. Perhaps you'd like to visit some of the museums:
1) The National Archaeological Museum ranks among the top ten museums in the world.
Its impressive collection, housed in a beautiful neoclassic building, includes ancient
Greek sculpture, jewelry, pottery, and the 2000 year old computer found in the shipwreck
off the island of Antikithera.
2) The Benaki Museum offers a better understanding of the country which is modern
Greece.
3) The Museum of Greek Folk Art has a collection of embroideries, wood carvings,
jewelry, and other traditional folk art. Its not-to-be-missed collection of ceramics is
housed in a beautifully renovated former mosque.
4) The National Historical Museum is worth a visit if you're interested in the
Greek War of Independence and its artifacts.
5) The Museum of Popular Musical Instruments offers you the opportunity to listen
to different instruments and styles of music through headphones at each exhibit of the
various instruments.
6) At the Byzantine Museum you can view a collection of Byzantine Icons, mosaics,
sculptures, garments and more.
The National
Gallery houses a permanent collection of modern Greek painters and international
contemporary artists, and also includes large-scale sculptures.
In the evening, we
enjoy our Farewell Dinner at the hotel. Our
last time to share our experiences and support each other in our integration of the Gifts
of Spirit that we've received from the Higher Aspects of Ourselves represented by the
Greek Gods and Goddesses.
Overnight Athens.
Day 12. Saturday, September 26. Depart Greece (B)
Morning
transfer to the airport after breakfast to check in for your international flight. IMPORTANT: Please book your
international return flight from Athens to depart after 11:00AM if
you want to take part in the group transfer. Private transfers to the airport at other
times can be arranged at an additional cost.
Note:
This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
A
Few Words from Sacred Sites Journeys Pilgrimages to Greece
"Greece
was my fourth sacred journey with Andrea and it was nothing but fabulous. Each island on
the cruise had its own flavor, beauty and history. And there was so much I learned from
our gracious and knowledgeable local guide at the sacred sites and throughout our tour of
the mainland. Driving through the mountains and along the coast was as educational as it
was scenic. I am convinced that there is no better way to appreciate the accomplishments
and spiritual traditions of the past than to experience them first hand (and with Delphi,
Crete, Epidaurus, Olympia, Ephesus and Eleusis there was so much to learn). My 12 year old
son has never had such a fabulous history lesson. What an adventure through so many
different spiritual traditions for us both! The pilgrimage through Greece cannot but
deepen the spiritual unfolding of a person's life. I most highly recommend it "
C. Bjergo, WA
"I would recommend the Greece trip to
ANYone! It's a fascinating and beautiful country. SO much history! I didn't really know
much about Greece before the trip. Just that I needed to visit Delphi. And the food
....it's fantastic and healthy. Andrea is a wizard at keeping things organized and on
time. And I highly recommend the olive oil soap by the way. I gifted a bar to my cleaning
lady and she's already called me to report how nice her skin feels! I'm definitely sold on
Greece and will return in the next year or two."
L. Merrill, KS
" Greece is a
beautiful country, rich in history and full of great sites to explore. I totally enjoyed
my time spent there during the sacred journey with Andrea. Since we went in the off
season, having the sacred sites virtually to ourselves was a big bonus, and priceless! All
of the arrangements made for the tour were handled impeccably, and our local guides were
charming and informative." - P. Awyan, Egypt
"
The
sacred journey to Greece with Andrea was experience that I will have with me for the rest
of my life. Thank you! What a place to celebrate my Birthday! I greatly enjoyed the
company of everyone in our small group; I felt that I really connected with everyone on
the trip. And I hope to see you all again" - C. Bland, ME
" I found that going to Greece with Andrea
with no expectations was the best! I am still in another dimension, and as time permits
me, I will document my version of my visit, what I have learned, and what is currently
happening to me as a result of visiting the temples and sacred sites. I am delighted we
had such a small group; the bonding was extremely wonderful. The connections I made to my
past are very real! I recommend this journey to everyone." - R.
Garrett, NM
"The sacred journey to Greece with Andrea was a magical trip! The countryside
was charming. Our local guides were very informative and interested. The place I connected
with the most was the Asclepius Sanctuary. All of the museums were excellent. Best of all,
it was a wonderful group of people to travel with!" – D Balch, CA
TOUR INCLUSIONS
Your Sacred Sites Journey
to GREECE Includes:
-
Accommodations in first class hotels, including taxes, service charges and daily breakfast
- 8 dinners (including special welcome and farewell dinners), 1 lunch
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Travel by deluxe motorcoach
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary, including entrance fees
- Group airport/hotel/airport transfers
- Baggage handling at hotels
- Pre-Paid Gratuities for guides, drivers, waiters at dinners provided to the group
Special Added Features
- Travel in a smaller group with other spirit-centered people
- Fully escorted by Sacred Sites Journeys' Director Andrea Mikana-Pinkham
- Athens City Tour, including the Acropolis and Parthenon
- The Oracle of Trophonius at Levadia
- The Oracle of Zeus at Dodona:
- Delphi: Sanctuary of Athena, Temple of Apollo, Oracle of Delphi
- Temple of Eleusis: Site of the Ancient Eleusinian Mystery School of Demeter &
Persephone
- Island of Mykonos
- Island of Delos, Birthplace of Artemis and Apollo
- Welcome and Farewell Dinners
- Meditations and sacred ceremonies at sacred sites
NOT INCLUDED:
- Roundtrip international air to/from Athens, Greece
- Meals not included, as indicated in the itinerary
- Cost to obtain valid passport
- Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, internet and telephone calls.
Any item that is not specifically detailed on the SSJ website, in the tour brochure or
final trip itinerary
TOUR PRICING
This tour is LAND ONLY. You are responsible to book your
international flights to and from ATHENS, GREECE.
ARRIVAL:
Please arrive in Athens by 9:00AM on ???????
in order to connect with the group transfer to the hotel.
DEPARTURE:
Please book your international return flight from Athens to
depart after 11:00AM on ???????.
DISCOUNT! Make ALL of your payments by check or money order
and receive a 4% discount! This discount is INCLUDED in the prices below listed for this
payment option.
Spiritual Odyssey
of Initiation - September 15 -
26, 2010
Per
Person, double occupancy, Land ONLY
New Spring 2001 Dates and Pricing to be posted soon! Please bookmark this
page and check back.
$???? for payments via check or money order
OR $???? for payments via credit card
PLUS:
Pre-paid Gratuities:
$120.00
for payments via check or money order
OR $125.00 for payments via credit card
Optional Single Room Supplement:
$???
for payments via check or money order
OR $??? for payments via credit card
NOTE:
This is the additional amount you will pay if you choose to have your own private room
throughout the tour.
ROOMMATES:
Would you like to meet and make a new friend on your journey? If you're not traveling on
the journey with anyone you know, and would like for SSJ to try to match you up with a
suitable roommate, we'll be happy to try to do so.
Per
our Terms and Conditions, we will hold the registration for the trip open until 30 days
before the departure date (or later if possible) in order to try to match you with
someone. If by that date we have not been able to do so, you will be responsible to pay
for the single supplement. If you would like to be matched with a roommate, please
register early.
TOUR REGISTRATION
Postponed til Spring of 2011
Dates to be posted soon! Bookmark this page and check back.
Questions? Email Andrea Mikana-Pinkham at info@SacredSitesJourneys.com
Or call our office at 888
501-3853 (Toll free in the US) or 928 284-2384
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