‌
Delphi Archaeological Site

Tholos of Athena Pronaia

Included with some Delphi Archaeological Site tickets

Timings

RECOMMENDED DURATION

5+ hours

Ancient ruins of the Tholos at Delphi archaeological site, Greece, with mountains in the background.

Perched on a dramatic slope just southeast of the main archaeological site of Delphi, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia is the first sacred space visitors would encounter as they approach the Oracle. Nestled among the olive-covered slopes of Mount Parnassus, the sanctuary offers breathtaking views of the Pleistos Valley.

At the heart of this sanctuary stands the Tholos of Athena Pronaia, a striking circular temple crafted from gleaming marble, which once dazzled ancient pilgrims. Its unique design, unlike any other structure in Delphi, remains elegant and enigmatic, harmoniously blending with the mountainous landscape.

How to access:

Access to the Tholos of Athena Pronaia is included with your Delphi tickets, granting entry to the entire archaeological site. Whether you opt for an audio-guided tour, a guided entry, or a full-day tour, all options provide access to this monumental site along with the rest of the sanctuary.

What is the Tholos of Athena Pronaia?

A unique monument

Built around 380 BCE, the Tholos of Athena Pronaia was a circular marble temple with 20 Doric columns surrounding a central cella. Due to earthquakes and stone reuse, only three original columns remain.

A symbolic entry point to Delphi

The name “Pronaia” means “before the temple,” reflecting its role as a spiritual gateway for pilgrims heading to the Oracle of Apollo. While some believe the circular design symbolized wholeness or the cosmos, its exact purpose remains debated.

A site of mystery

Archaeologists remain unsure of its exact purpose, whether it was a hero shrine, a treasury, or a space for divine rituals. Its exceptional craftsmanship and central placement suggest high significance, both spiritually and symbolically.

History of the Tholos

  • c. 380 BCE: Construction of the Tholos begins under Theodoros of Phokaia, possibly as a sanctuary or hero shrine.
  • 4th to 2nd century BCE: The Tholos serves as a ceremonial or religious site, potentially linked to female deities or hero cults.
  • 1st century BCE to 2nd century AD: Delphi faces invasions and earthquakes, and the Tholos gradually falls into ruin.
  • 394 AD: Pagan cults are outlawed under Christian rule, and the sanctuary is abandoned.
  • 15th to 19th centuries: The Tholos remains buried and largely forgotten under rubble and hillside.
  • 1880s: French archaeologists excavate the site during the Great Excavation of Delphi.
  • Early 1900s: Three Doric columns are re-erected in a partial reconstruction.
  • 1987: Delphi, including the Tholos, is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Today: The Tholos stands as one of Delphi’s most photographed and iconic ruins.

​Delphi's history & cultural legacy >

Architecture & layout

Designed around 380 BC by Theodoros of Phocea, who even documented its construction, this place features a circular plan unusual in Greek temple design. Twenty Doric columns stood on a three-stepped podium, supporting a frieze of sculpted triglyphs and metopes. Inside, ten engaged Corinthian columns added interior refinement.

The structure’s multicolored brilliance came from Parian and Pentelic marble, with dark blue Eleusinian limestone for the floor and base. A richly carved coffered ceiling once adorned the interior, and the probable conical roof was decorated with acroteria shaped like dancing women. Though much of its relief decoration was defaced during Christian rule, the monument still reflects the artistic ambition and symbolic depth of ancient Delphi.

Tholos of Athena Pronaia photos

Ancient ruins of the Tholos at the Delphi archaeological site in Greece.
Ancient ruins of the Tholos of Athena Pronaia in Delphi with mountain backdrop.
Ruins of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi with mountain backdrop.
Tholos of Athena Pronaia in Delphi with surrounding ruins and mountainous landscape.
Guests exploring ancient ruins at Delphi site, Greece, with columns and temple remains.

Plan your visit to the Tholos of Athena Pronaia

Visitors exploring ancient ruins at the Delphi archaeological site in Greece.

  • Open daily: 9am to 7pm

  • Winter note: From November 1 to March 31, most Delphi day tours do not include the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, where the Tholos is located. To ensure access, check tour itineraries in advance or plan an independent visit during the off-season.

Best time to visit Delphi
Guests exploring ancient ruins at Delphi, Greece.
  • From the main Delphi archaeological site, head southeast along the road or stone paths towards the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.
  • The Tholos sits on a terrace below the main temple complex, clearly visible as you approach.
  • The distinctive circular shape and three restored Doric columns make it easy to spot from the road.
  • As you walk, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the valley below.
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Delphi archaeological site, Greece, with mountainous landscape.

For a peaceful experience, visit the Tholos of Athena Pronaia early in the morning when temperatures are cooler, and the crowds are minimal, especially before tour buses from Athens arrive. Late afternoon, after 5pm, is another quiet time to explore as the crowds begin to thin.

The most pleasant weather occurs in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), offering mild temperatures and fewer tourists. During the summer (June to August), it's best to visit either early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Frequently asked questions about the Tholos of Athena Pronaia

Yes, access to the Tholos is typically included with the Delphi archaeological site entry tickets and day tours. However, it is located in a separate sanctuary area, about a 10-minute walk from the main ruins.

More reads

Delphi day tours from Athens

Delphi small-group tours

Plan your visit to the Delphi archaeological site