Motherland of the Olympic Games
In the western Peloponnese, in the “Valley of Gods”, lies the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, and the birthplace of the most important athletic mega-event of all times; the Olympic Games. Olympia is one of the most well known tourist destinations in Greece, and one of the most powerful brand names worldwide.
In the valley between the rivers Alfeios and Kladeos, exist the world famous archaeological site of Ancient Olympia. Beside the city of Elis, Olympia emerged as one of the greatest nationwide artistic and religious centers of antiquity.
Olympia also became the center of the Olympic Games, the athletic events that took place to honor God Zeus. Se this is the birthplace of the Olympic spirit and the spirit of national togetherness and peace.
Today and exactly every four years the Olympic flame begins its journey from Ancient Olympia to the city hosting the Olympic Games.
Olympia Must See
- The archaeological site of Olympia, one of the most important in Greece. Among other things worth seeing the ancient stadium, temples of Zeus and Hera, the parliament and the Prytaneum Olympia, the ancient gymnasium and the palaestra.
- The Archaeological Museum of Olympia. The museum's permanent exhibition contains finds from excavations in the sacred area of the Altis. More important is the exhibition of sculpture and the bronze collection, which is the richest in the world and consists of weapons, figurines and other objects, while very important, is the findings of the great pottery.
- The Museum of the Olympic Games. Through 463 artefacts shows the history of the Olympic Games of antiquity.
- The monument built in honor of the French Baron Pierre de Koumperten (1863-1937) Olympic Academy.
Olympia Must Do
- Walk though the impressive ruins of the area where athletes trained and run in the ancient stadium; just as the ancient Olympians did after their victory 3000 years ago. You can also visit the museum and get the chance to see some unbelievable sculptures such as the sculpted decoration of the temple of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the famous Hermis of Praxiteles and the statue of Nike of Paionios.
- Watch the burning of the Olympic flame. From Ancient Olympia every four years begins its journey to the city hosting the Olympic Games, the Olympic flame. The ceremony of touch, the High Priestess lights the flame in the sanctuary of Hera. A parabolic mirror 'capture' the sun and lit the Olympic torch. Then the flame disseminates the torch of the first torchbearer.
