In part, because of the translation from the original Greek alphabet, many of the Greek cities have multiple spellings and you are likely to see each one spelled in every possible way on signs, street directions, etc. For example, the city we stayed at yesterday is commonly called Thiva but it is also referred to as Thebes. In Greek mythology, Thebes played a major role in numerous accounts including being the birthplace of Hercules. For many years it was a major competitor to Athens often taking opposite sides in conflicts. Today it is a minor city compared to Athens but based on the lack of closed stores and no graffiti it seems much more prosperous.
Unfortunately, none of the Herculean strength rubbed off on me while there and I ran out of juice today after about 2/3 of the ride. I have been having trouble sleeping the past several days and it finally caught up with me. The lunch break was at 60KM of a 92KM ride and I decided to catch a ride from there rather than do the last section. My legs were very tired and although I realized I could make the last section it would have been very slow and would likely negatively impact my ability to do the next sections. Anyway, once I got to Delphi I was able to take a three hour nap and feel much restored. I hope that indicates the end of my sleeplessness.
Delphi is a beautiful place. Carol and I visited here on the year we spent traveling Europe and I remember it quite well from that trip as a lovely spot. We are up on the side of the mountain and have a fantastic view of the Corinthian bay. The ruins of the oracle’s temple are slightly above us and in a forested area that is quite beautiful. I may go visit it tomorrow.
Our ride today was fairly chilly as it rained on an off throughout. We mostly were riding through agricultural fields interspersed with occasional small towns. The road was generally very wide with a good shoulder and even though there was more traffic than yesterday it was not bad and in any case there was plenty of room to ride. As we ride we occasionally see various ruins in the hills but they are typically too far away to photograph. Today however there was a tower sitting on a bluff next to the road and the bluff had been excavated making a large cavelike room below it.
Tomorrow is a rest day so we will have the opportunity to explore Delphi a bit. There are several museums here along with the ruins. Hopefully, by Wednesday I will be back a full strength for the significant climbing ahead.
