The Day Delphi Was Plundered | Greece’s Greatest Sacrilege In ancient Greece, the sacred Temple of Apollo at Delphi stood as a symbol of divine power and unity. But during a time of political turmoil, the unthinkable happened. The Phocians stormed the sanctuary — not for worship, but for wealth. Golden offerings from kings, silver treasures from devotees, and even sacred statues were melted down and turned into coin. What was once holy became currency. This act of sacrilege shocked the Greek wor