The House of Dionysus is an ancient residence on Delos, the small island in the Cyclades that lies a short boat ride from Mykonos. It is one of the best-preserved homes on the archaeological site, and it is known above all for its elaborate mosaic floors, which depict scenes from Greek mythology, particularly those connected with Dionysus.
What you will see
Walking through the house, visitors can study the mosaics laid into its floors. Their figures and stories give a sense of how the people who lived here decorated their private rooms and what subjects mattered to them. Because so much of the building survives, it is easier to picture it as a home rather than as a set of scattered ruins.
Why it makes a worthwhile visit
- It is a residential building, which offers a different view from the temples and public monuments found elsewhere on Delos.
- The mosaics are the main draw, and they reward a slow look.
- It sits within the wider archaeological site, so a visit here can be combined with other parts of the island.
Delos is an island of archaeological interest rather than a place with a large town, so plan your day around the site itself. The House of Dionysus is best approached as one stop among many on a walk across the ancient ground.
The island is reached from Mykonos, and the site is at Delos Island, 84600 Mykonos, Greece. Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths and ground are uneven in places.