Just outside Rovies, Evia, among olive groves and sea breezes, stood one of ancient Greece’s lesser-known sacred sites: the Oracle of Selinountios Apollo. This sanctuary, dedicated to Apollo — god of prophecy, light, and harmony — once served as a spiritual center for Northern Evia long before Delphi rose to prominence.
The oracle was located in the ancient city of Oriviai, corresponding to modern-day Rovies. Overlooking the Evian Gulf, it was perfectly positioned between sea routes and inland trade paths. The geographer Strabo explicitly identifies the area as the seat of the “Selinountios Apollo” (Book X, 445), confirming its historical and religious role.
In 426 BC, a massive earthquake struck northern Evia, followed by a tsunami that destroyed the ancient city — an event recorded by Thucydides. The catastrophe submerged temples and settlements, and the Oracle of Apollo was lost beneath the earth and sea. The disaster marked the end of an era, but traces of the sanctuary still echo through the land.
Today, remnants of the oracle lie near the Monastery of Saint George of Ilia, surrounded by dense forests and serene streams. The setting — overlooking the gulf, framed by mountains — perfectly matches the spirit of a place where Apollo was once believed to speak through nature itself.
Visitors can reach the area by a short walk from Rovies or with guidance from locals. While no official excavations or signage exist, the atmosphere of the site remains deeply evocative. It’s a stop worth including for those who love history, mythology, and natural beauty.
For accommodation nearby, Iliahtida Apartments in Rovies offer sea-view rooms and an ideal base for exploring the Oracle site, the Monastery of Saint David, and the hidden gems of Northern Evia. For reservations, call (+30) 22270 71242.
