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Magical Delos, sister island of Mykonos, was first inhabited in 3000 B.C.
This island, declared ""Sacred Island"" by the Greek government, contains ruins of one of the most important and glorious civilizations the world has ever known. The island itself is relatively small - six kilometers long and 1,500 meters wide - but it is monumental in Greek history and mythology. Delos is not only the geological center of the Cyclades, but was once the commercial, religious, and commercial center of ancient Greece.
The myth of Delos : Zeus was looking for a sanctuary for Leto who he impregnated so she could give birth out of the sight of Hera, the very jealous wife of Zeus. He chose Delos. Leto gave birth to Apollo, god of light, and his sister Artemis, goddess of hunting.
History tells us that the island was probably first inhabited in 3000 B.C. and at the end of the fourth century it developed into a major commercial center, competing with Rhodes. By Roman times, Delos had roughly 25,000 inhabitants. Archaeologists uncovered evidence of Ioanians living here in the 7th century B.C., followed through the centuries by Athenians, Delians, Egyptians, Syrians, and Romans.
Delos' rule over the sea was established around 478 B.C. when a Delian confederacy was formed to bring neighboring islands under its influence, thus establishing Delos' supremacy. During this time, lavish festivals were held every five years to honor the gods. Large barges brought animals from neighboring islands for sacrifice and the most nubile Delian maidens were chosen to dance and sing hymns in honor of the gods.
The island's fall was sudden and brutal. In 88 B.C. during the Mithriadic War, the island was completely destroyed. It was not until late in the 19th century that archaeologists began excavations that revealed the glory of Delos and encouraged the Greek government to establish strict rules for this site.
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