Delos, as a sacred place with magnificent buildings and sanctuaries, was never forgotten, and there are many references by travelers to the ruins visible on the island. Many sculptures were transferred to museums in Greece and abroad, while unfortunately, marble from ancient buildings was used as construction material by the inhabitants of the surrounding islands.

Excavations in Delos began in 1873 by the French Archaeological School of Athens. From 1904 to 1914, the most important parts of ancient Delos were uncovered under the direction of M. Holleaux and thanks to the generous funding of the Duke de Loubat. The years 1958 to 1975 were also a period of intense excavation activity. The excavation is still ongoing by the French Archaeological School, but the center of religious, political, and commercial life, as well as a large part of the private residences, have already been uncovered.

Small-scale excavations were also conducted by Greek archaeologists, mainly in the early 20^th century.

Large-scale restoration work was carried out by the French Archaeological School, mainly in the neighborhoods of private residences, while smaller scale work has been carried out in recent years by the 21st Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities. Several columns were restored, while ancient houses (House of the Trident, House of the Masks, House of Hermes) were roofed mainly to protect the mosaic floors.

Since 1990, Delos has been included in the list of monuments that constitute World Cultural Heritage and are protected by UNESCO.