Pronunciation: [dɪlˈə͡ʊz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Delos" is straightforward. It is spelled as it sounds, with a "d" sound at the beginning, followed by "ee" as in "bee", "l" and "oh" as in "so". The stress is on the first syllable, "DEE-los". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is represented as /ˈdiːlɒs/, with "d" represented as /d/, "ee" as /iː/, "l" as /l/, "oh" as /ɒ/ and stress marked by a vertical line at the beginning of the first syllable.
Delos is a small Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, about 2.5 kilometers southwest of the larger island of Mykonos. It is renowned as one of the most significant archaeological and historical sites in Greece. In Greek mythology, Delos is believed to be the birthplace of Apollo (the god of the sun, music, and poetry) and his twin sister Artemis. The island is intimately associated with their cults and was considered a sacred sanctuary dedicated to their worship.
As a historical site, Delos holds great importance due to its well-preserved ruins that date back to ancient Greek and Roman times. The island rose to prominence in the 6th century BCE and became a flourishing commercial and religious center, attracting visitors from all over the Mediterranean. It housed a vast range of temples, sanctuaries, and statues, many of which remain partially intact to this day. The architectural remains showcase a fusion of different styles influenced by Persian, Egyptian, and Greek civilizations.
Delos was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990 and continues to be a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. The excavated ruins provide valuable insights into the lives, culture, and architecture of ancient Mediterranean civilizations. The island also offers breathtaking natural landscapes and scenic views, making it a popular spot for leisure and exploration. Delos stands as a testament to the rich historical and mythological heritage of Greece and serves as a window to the past for those who visit.
The word "Delos" has its origins in ancient Greek. It comes from the Greek word "Δῆλος" (Delos), which is believed to have originated from the archaic Greek word "δῆλον" (dēlon), meaning "manifest" or "visible". Delos is also the name of a small island in the Aegean Sea, which holds great significance in Greek mythology as the birthplace of the god Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. The name "Delos" likely evokes the idea of being visible or revealed, highlighting the island's mythological importance.
