Delphi, in the heart of Mount Parnassus in Central Greece, was believed by ancient people to be the omphalos (navel) of the earth, the centre of the universe. At the point where the oracle of Delphi, the most important in antiquity, lies, there used to be a prehistoric shrine dedicated to the great earth-mother ‘Gaia’. The place exudes power and mysticism. Nature, with the rustling of the age-old trees, the commanding view and the mythical significance of the oracle give visitors the impression that they have lifted the veils of time and are standing at the beginning of the world.