Delphi came into maturity approximately 600 BCE and was well established by the time of the classical era.

As a result of several "sacred wars" a league of cities in the area became responsible for tending to the affairs of the site and running the Pythian games. "Pythia" means "snake" and is in reference to a cult of a great snake in a nearby cave.

Pilgrims would come, offer a sacrifice, write their question and have it submitted to the oracle.

Whatever the reality, many agree that one factor in the accuracy of the oracles was the position of Delphi as a sort of intelligence gathering spot where the priests could listen in to people from all over the nation.

The Romans plundered the site and the oracle fell into disuse. Eventually early Christian leaders had it shut down and the site fell silent for a thousand years and more.