Why Parnassus?


Parnassus is a mountain in Greece which was the home of learning for the ancient Greeks.

On the south-western slopes is Delphi, the ancient sanctuary that grew rich as the seat of Pythia, the oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The ancient Greeks considered the centre of the world to be in Delphi, marked by the stone monument known as the omphalos (navel).

Parnassus, as the place where the muses lived, is associated with creative pursuits such as poetry and music, as referenced in this poem by Thomas Moore:

If with water you fill up your glasses,
You’ll never write anything wise;
For wine is the horse of Parnassus,
Which hurries a bard to the skies.
Thomas Moore.