Omphalos Stone

The Omphalos Stone, "omphalos" meaning "navel," is an ancient artifact, one of the most sacred in the entire Achaean Empire. It is said to be capable of aiding in the production of prophetic visions and allowing contact with the forces divine, including the gods themselves.

History

When Kronos planned to devour his children before one could slay him, Rhea swaddled a stone in clothing and presented it to him, pretending it to be his son, Zeus. After Kronos's defeat, the stone was extracted and placed by Zeus at the center of the world, which he deemed to be the sacred site that became the city of Krisa. This stone became the Omphalos Stone.

Current Location

A large stone is displayed within the temple at Krisa, but a smaller stone is claimed to be brought out alongside the Pythia during oracle visitations. Many visitors believe this may be the real omphalos stone, while the one on display is for purposes of worship. If true, the real omphalos is as heavily protected as the Pythia herself.