We wake this morning at the entrance to one of the world's engineering wonders, the Corinth Canal. This narrow waterway connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea, cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth and saving vessels a significant 700-kilometer journey around the Peloponnese peninsula. Stretching 6.4 kilometers and only 21 meters wide at its base, the Corinth Canal is one of the narrowest lock-free canals in the world. Its towering limestone walls, reaching heights of up to 78 meters, create a dramatic passage for vessels, which almost touch its sides as they sail its path. The concept of cutting a canal through the isthmus dates to ancient times, with plans proposed by Periander of Corinth in the 7th century BCE. Construction finally began under Roman Emperor Nero, only to halt upon his death. It was not until 1893 the canal was finally completed. Its construction was a monumental effort, involving the excavation of millions of cubic meters of earth and rock, all dug at sea level. It stands as a remarkable achievement in engineering and continues to be a key route for maritime traffic, enhancing Greece's role as a central hub in the Mediterranean. Exiting the canal, we sail the Gulf of Corinth to Itea where our afternoon offers a glimpse into the life of the early Greeks, with a visit to the former city of Delphi. The local guides tell tales of pilgrimage, sacrifice, and early faiths as we take a literal step into the world of ancient Greece. Revered throughout antiquity as a sacred site where pilgrims could glimpse the future, the Oracle of Delphi cast cryptic prophecies for over a millennium. Dubbed the 'navel of the world' for its pivotal position in the Greek realm, Delphi drew pilgrims from all sectors of society, shaping critical decisions, from civic politics to personal destinies. Perched dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Oracle was esteemed as a direct conduit to the divine realm of Apollo - the sun god. Revered for his beauty and creative prowess, Apollo symbolized order and harmony. As a result, Delphi became integral to Greek identity, reflecting its religious, cultural, and political life. It was a unifying site where people from various city-states gathered, fostering a sense of shared Hellenic heritage. Our journey leads us to the very site of the Oracle, alongside the opulent Treasury of the Athenians - a testament to offerings made. We pause at the ancient theater, host to the prestigious Pythian Games, and the Castalian Spring, where pilgrims purified themselves before seeking counsel. Today, Delphi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its influence enduring through the annals of literature, history, and art. It remains a profound emblem of ancient wisdom and cultural legacy, cherished by Greece as a bridge to its storied past. Returning to the ship we sail to Greece's classic, the Peloponnese Peninsula. ...
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