190,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock 🇳🇿 

Overnight NZ-wide delivery | 📍 Visit our Auckland bookstore • Open 7 days, 8:30am–5pm

Delphi

A History of the Center of the Ancient World
By Michael Scott
0.0 (0 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Delphi explores the renowned sanctuary and oracle of the Greek god Apollo, known as the 'omphalos' or 'navel' of the ancient world. Michael Scott examines its rise as a religious and cultural centre, the cryptic prophecies of its priestess, and its role as a contested sacred site housing treasures from across the Mediterranean. The book provides a richly illustrated and detailed history, tracing Delphi's significance from its early worship through its decline and continuing legacy.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$6099
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 4-6 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for general readers interested in ancient history and mythology, students, tourists planning visits to Greece, and specialists seeking a comprehensive and accessible study of one of antiquity's most fascinating sites.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The oracle and sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi were known as the "omphalos"--the "center" or "navel"--of the ancient world for more than 1000 years. Individuals, city leaders, and kings came from all over the Mediterranean and beyond to consult Delphi's oracular priestess; to set up monuments to the gods; and to take part in competition

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The oracle and sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi were known as the omphalos—the "centre" or "navel"—of the ancient world for more than 1,000 years. Individuals, city leaders, and kings came from all over the Mediterranean and beyond to consult Delphi's oracular priestess, to set up monuments to the gods, and to take part in competitions.

In this richly illustrated account, Michael Scott covers the history and nature of Delphi, from the literary and archaeological evidence surrounding the site, to its rise as a centre of worship, to the constant appeal of the oracle despite her cryptic prophecies. He describes how Delphi became a contested sacred site for Greeks and Romans and a storehouse for the treasures of rival city-states and foreign kings. He also examines the eventual decline of the site and how its meaning and importance have continued to be reshaped.

A unique window into the centre of the ancient world, Delphi will appeal to general readers, tourists, students, and specialists.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Praised for its thoroughness and engaging scholarship, Delphi was named one of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles and shortlisted for the Runciman Award. Critics highlight Scott's deft combination of literary and archaeological evidence and commend his vivid account of the site's excavation history. The work is noted for its breadth, attention to detail, and ability to keep readers aware of the lived realities of the ancient settlement.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691169842

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 20 October 2015

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Illustration: 3 Maps

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 482g

Pages: 448

Collections

Ancient & Classical History History & Archaeology History & Military Michael Scott Non-Fiction

About the Author

Michael Scott is associate professor of classics and ancient history at the University of Warwick. He has written and presented a number of ancient history documentaries for National Geographic, the History channel, Nova, and the BBC, including one on Delphi.

Also by Michael Scott

View all
  • The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel: The Lost Stories Collection
    The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel: The Lost Stories Collection by Michael Scott takes you into a world of myth, legend, and magic that was previously lost to history and is now available in a new paperback edition. Did you know that Nicholas Flamel, who appeared in J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, really lived? Discover his secrets in...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $2400
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Warlock
    The fifth book of the enormously successful Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series—Sophie and Josh, the twins of prophecy, have been divided, and the end has begun. Winner of a Parents' Choice Silver Honor Award, 2012 The Newman twins have finally been divided. The end is near. In San Francisco, Josh has chosen a side—and he will not stand...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $1999
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Alchemyst
    The first book in the New York Times bestselling series, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, offers breathless action, pin-sharp plotting, and a hero and heroine to root for! Now published with an exciting new cover look and an introduction from the author. Nicholas Flamel was born in Paris on 28 September 1330. Nearly seven hundred years later, he...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • X Marks the Spot
    Ancient shipwrecks in crystal seas, mythical princesses preserved in ice, and astonishing lost rituals — this is the story of archaeology. Professor Michael Scott uncovers the true stories behind history's most monumental discoveries, unearthing traps, curses, and buried treasure along the way. Full of extraordinary characters — from glory hunters to forgotten heroes — X Marks the Spot explores our...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $2999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Necromancer
    The fourth book in the New York Times bestselling series sees the dark magic of the Elders pose an even greater threat to Sophie and Josh Newman, who must enter into a war with John Dee and his menagerie of monsters. Sophie and Josh have returned to San Francisco. They must protect themselves from the Dark Elders, but they've not...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Valentino Rossi, Revised and Updated
    This visual biography explores the legendary career of motorcycle racer Valentino Rossi, including his victories, rivalries, and racing class transitions across Aprilia, Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati race bikes. From the day he was born into a racing family on February 16, 1979, Valentino Rossi seemed destined for racing greatness. Racing karts and minimotos as a child, he progressed to international...
    By Michael Scott
    Hardback
    $7999
    Elsewhere:
    $8999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Enchantress
    The sixth and final book in the New York Times bestselling Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series. The Enchantress The two that are one must become the one that is all. One to save the world, one to destroy it. San Francisco Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel have one day left to live, and one job left to do. They...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $1999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Magician
    Dark magic and fast-paced adventure await in this second book of the New York Times bestselling series The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel. Now published with an exciting new cover and an introduction from the author! Ashes to ashes . . . California - The book of Abraham the Mage holds the secret of eternal life, a secret more...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Sorceress
    The Sorceress, the third book in the New York Times bestselling series, is packed with high-octane action, compelling twists, and dark magic. It is published in paperback with an exciting new cover look and an introduction from the author. Dr John Dee has destroyed Paris in his mission to find Nicholas Flamel and Sophie and Josh Newman. The two missing...
    By Michael Scott
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Themistocles
    A portrait of the Athenian politician and general Themistocles, tracing his political development, his victory at the Battle of Salamis, and his exile in Persia. Themistocles (524–459 BC) came of age just as a newly democratic and empowered Athens was emerging. He would become an instrumental political and military figure, fighting in the Battle of Marathon; persuading Athenians to expand...
    By Michael Scott
    Hardback
    $4499
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel Graphic Novel
    Discover the magical world of the bestselling series The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel as a graphic novel! Experience Sophie and Josh's first adventure like never before in this adaptation complete with stunning full-colour illustrations by Chris Chalik. The truth—Nicholas Flamel's tomb is empty. The legend—Nicholas Flamel lives. Nicholas Flamel is the greatest Alchemyst to ever live. The records...
    By Michael Scott and Chris Chalik
    Paperback
    $3500
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • MotoGP: The Illustrated History 2023
    The daring exploits of motorcycle race legends Valentino Rossi, Barry Sheene, Casey Stoner, and John Surtees are all gloriously celebrated in MotoGP: The Illustrated History. Updated for 2023 and packed with more than 150 stunning photographs, this authoritative and long-overdue illustrated history celebrates high-performance motorbike racing since the start of the world championship in 1949. Each racing decade is dissected...
    By Michael Scott
    Hardback
    $6999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks

Browse lists from our team

The Latest at Book Hero

View all

More from History & Military

View all
  • Behind Enemy Lines
    New Release
    Behind Enemy Lines
    Archie Gibson's initiation into desert warfare almost proved to be his last. Barrelling through the sand dunes at the wheel of his truck, Gibson spied a searing flash of light up ahead, the signature of a feared German 88mm gun firing ... right at him. He leapt from his speeding vehicle just before it was torn apart and turned into...
    By Damien Lewis
    Paperback
    $3299
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • New Release
    The Cauldron
    How did an elderly cleric overthrow the Shah of Iran and change the world?Why did Bin Laden attack the USA - and why did the USA destroy Saddam?How did Britain and France carve up the Middle East - and why did the Kurds never get their own state? THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE MAKING OF TODAY'S MIDDLE EAST: A SPELLBINDING...
    By Simon Sebag Montefiore
    Hardback
    $4999
    Elsewhere:
    $6000
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Saving Elli
    One child. Two years in hiding. Three lives in mortal danger. In Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, near Anne Frank's house, another Jewish girl is hidden. Her name is Elli. Her father has been executed at Mauthausen concentration camp. Her mother is fleeing for her life. Elli is next. To save her, resistance couple Frits and Jo Hakkens must risk everything, concealing her...
    By Doug Gold
    Paperback
    $3299
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Dylan's Pick Dylan's Pick
    Suicidal Empathy
    The bestselling author of The Parasitic Mind shows why empathy in politics leads to civilizational collapse. What happens when a society elevates victimhood to a virtue and decides that punishment is cruel? You get the disease Dr. Gad Saad calls suicidal empathy. And the West may be terminally infected. In his new book, Suicidal Empathy, Saad unleashes a blistering critique...
    By Gad Saad
    Paperback
    $3099
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • New Release
    The Race to the Top of the World
    The epic true story of George Mallory and Edmund Hillary and the quest to be the first to conquer Everest. A captivating story of adventure, daring, despair and triumph from Australia's favourite storyteller. Last century, two men, thirty years apart, set out to become the first to conquer the highest point in the world. Their names are synonymous with adventure...
    By Peter FitzSimons
    Hardback
    $4699
    Elsewhere:
    $6000
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Man's Search For Meaning
    Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is a profound, thought-provoking memoir and psychological exploration that delves into the harrowing experiences of life in Nazi concentration camps, intertwined with the author’s groundbreaking theories on existential psychology. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, offering a beacon of hope and a roadmap for finding purpose...
    By Viktor E Frankl
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $2100
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Wager
    THE SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER LONGLISTED FOR THE 2023 BAILLIE GIFFORD PRIZE FOR NON-FICTION 'The beauty of The Wager unfurls like a great sail... one of the finest nonfiction books I've ever read' Guardian 'The greatest sea story ever told' Spectator 'I cannot think of anyone who would not love this book... It is an extraordinary true story, beautifully...
    By David Grann
    Paperback
    $2399
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Signed
    Lizzy's Pick Lizzy's Pick
    The Chief and the Empire
    The Chief and the Empire uncovers the extraordinary true tale of Te Tai Tokerau rangatira Te Pahi - the first influential Māori leader to cross the Tasman - whose curiosity about the Pākehā world forged alliances, saved lives, and ultimately cost him his own. On a visit to Sydney in 1805, Te Pahi was feted as a celebrity, building close...
    By Eugene Bingham
    Paperback
    $3200
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Discipline
    Silence is complicity, but how do we confront the cost of speaking up? Sydney, May 2021. Ashraf is an academic whose career and personal life are in freefall. Hannah is a young journalist struggling to honour the voices of her community. When a Year 12 Al-Bayinnah College student is arrested for protesting a university's ties to an Israeli weapons manufacturer,...
    By Randa Abdel-Fattah
    Paperback
    $4000
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Golden Menhir
    Assurancetourix is entering the legendary Gallic bards' competition to win the golden menhir. But with the Romans keeping a close watch, Asterix and Obelix must protect him at all costs. Their mission? Keep him safe-no matter what... even if it means risking their own ears! First released as a book-disc in 1967, this adventure soon became a rare treasure, long...
    By René Goscinny
    Hardback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3499
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Mum, I Want to Hear Your Story (Deluxe Edition)
    New Release
    Mum, I Want to Hear Your Story (Deluxe Edition)
    Give Your Mum a Beautiful Gift of Legacy, Love, and Lasting Memories The Official Hear Your Story Collection Mum, I Want to Hear Your Story is your key to discovering everything from your mother's childhood memories to the profound turning points in her life. Each intentional section gives your mum a place to share her life with you while creating...
    By Jeffrey Mason
    Hardback
    $4999
    Elsewhere:
    $5500
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Plunder
    New Release
    Plunder
    The last weeks of World War II on the Western Front in Europe witnessed extraordinary scenes of heroism, horror, melodrama, and pathos. In Plunder, Max Hastings presents a cast of fascinating people—British, American, and German—in a series of great events in which some distinguished themselves through wonderful deeds, others through the basest crimes. The book takes its title from Montgomery’s...
    By Max Hastings
    Paperback
    $3699
    Elsewhere:
    $4500
    In Stock
    Ships today

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 190,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.