The lions on the Terrace of the Lions, Delos, are replicas. However, it is possible to see the originals nearby.
What is the Terrace of the Lions?
The Terrace of the Lions is one of the most photographed landmarks on the Greek island of Delos. These marble-carved lions face the island’s sacred lake, and are the most prominent of several monuments on the island installed by the Naxians.
The lions, which seem rather long and slim, are thought to have been carved in the 7th century BC.
How many lions are there on Delos?
If you visit Delos today, you’ll see five lions that are broadly intact along the terrace, plus a few remnants of others.
No-one really knows how many lions there were originally, however. Most estimates are between nine and 12. Some go as far as 19.
5 great Mykonos experiences to book
- 🚐 Small group highlights tour: Take a small group Mykonos highlights tour from the cruise port and avoid the chaos of large coach groups.
- 🏍️ Explore by ATV: Discover hidden beaches and backroads the fun way on an all-terrain vehicle.
- ⛵ Catamaran cruise: Relax on a catamaran cruise with meals, drinks and transport included.
- 🏛️ Delos day trip: Visit one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites on a half-day guided tour to Delos.
- 🍽️ Food tasting tour: Sample traditional dishes and local flavours on a Mykonos food tour.
Are the lions on Delos the originals?
The lions on Delos’ Terrace of the Lions are not the originals. They are replicas, albeit once made in exactly the same conditions of the originals.
Most of the surviving original lions are on display inside the Delos Archaeological Museum. This museum is on the island, within the archaeological site.
Why book the Mykonos, Delos & Rhenia daily cruise with BBQ?
- ⛵ Full-day adventure to Delos and Rhenia islands
- 🏖️ Swim at secluded beaches only accessible by boat
- 🔥 Fresh BBQ lunch served onboard with drinks
- 📸 Stunning views and photo ops from the water
- 🌅 Relaxing cruise vibes with expert local crew
One, however, was taken to Venice, where it now guards the Venetian Arsenal.
Many visitors overlook the museum as they just want to see the ruins. However, it’s the best place to learn about Delos’ complex history, from being the legendary birthplace of Apollo to the present day.
Delos museum entrance price
Entrance to the Delos Archaeological Museum is covered by the ticket to the Delos archaeological site. At the time of writing, these tickets cost €20.
There are no separate tickets that just cover the Delos Archaeological Museum. You have to buy the ticket to enter the site as a whole.
Why book the Delos guided tour from Mykonos?
- 🏛️ UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece—the sacred island of Delos.
- ☀️ Birthplace of Apollo: Walk through the legendary birthplace of the Greek god of light and his twin sister Artemis, immersing yourself in ancient history and myth.
- 🦁 Terrace of the Lions: See the iconic marble lions dedicated to Apollo, along with remarkably preserved mosaics in the House of Dionysus and the House of Cleopatra.
- 📜 Expert Guided Insights: Benefit from a professional guide who brings the ruins to life, explaining the complex history of what was once a thriving cosmopolitan trade center.
- ⛴️ Seamless Boat Transfer: Enjoy a stress-free half-day trip with round-trip boat transportation from Mykonos included, making it the easiest way to visit this uninhabited island.
Getting to Delos
Delos is a 30-to-40 minute ferry ride from Mykonos. The ferry is operated by Delos Tours, with return tickets costing €25.
Alternatively, you may plump for a guided tour, which has the advantage of a guide who knows what they’re talking about explaining the ruins. There are several Delos tours available, most of which include the cost of the ferry ticket, but not always entry to the archaeological site.
It is not possible to stay overnight on Delos, and the island is effectively closed to visitors in the winter.
More Greek Islands travel
Other Greek Islands travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
