Evzone Guards

The changeover complete the old guard touch toes momentarily before marching back to camp.  They have stood in their positions without apparently moving a muscle for two half hour periods.  At the mid point they changed positions.  In the intense heat of an Athens summer their superior officer is constantly checking their posture and uniform and when needed wiping the sweat from their brows.

They make a fine sight on the march back. I am sure I would have been mown down had I not grabbed my shot and hurried out of their way as they came barreling along.

On Sundays at 10.45 there is a full dress (literally) ceremonial changing of the guard. It was not easy to find out the time of this major event. The Visitor  Center was closed late Friday afternoon when we arrived and wouldn't open again until we were safely on our way to Delphi.  Storekeepers in the Square claimed not to know.  Nor was it in my guidebook, it is in Lonely Planet so there is a moral there somewhere..

The officers are even more resplendent than their men. With amazing striped boots and dress swords.  There followed a short ceremony involving the full guard.