Ancient Olympia, one of the most emblematic archaeological sites in Greece, is a destination that combines history, culture and spiritual upliftment. If you are fascinated by history and love discovering the secrets of the ancient world, then Olympia should definitely be on your list.
Visiting Olympia, it’s like travelling back in time. In the heart of Peloponnese, amidst green hills and idyllic landscapes, lie the ruins of one of the most important sacred sites of antiquity. Here, the ancient Greeks not only honoured their gods, but also laid the foundations of modern global sport.
The birthplace of the Olympic Games
The main reason to visit Ancient Olympia is that it is the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Imagine walking into the stadium where athletes from all over the ancient world competed for honour and glory, following the values of ‘fair play’. In the stadium, you can stand at the starting line, close your eyes and imagine the crowd cheering, transporting you to another era.
The monuments and their history
The archaeological site of Olympia is full of monuments that testify its rich history. The Temple of Zeus, which once housed the famous gold and ivory statue of the god, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is one of the most important sites. Although the statue does not survive today, the sense of grandeur that the place exudes remains unsurpassed.
The Temple of Hera, on the other hand, is one of the oldest temples in Greece and the place where the Olympic Flame is lit every four years. .
The Laboratory of Phidias, where the statue of Zeus was made, is also a place not to be missed.
After your tour of the site, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia is the ideal place to complete your experience. There, you can see unique exhibits such as the statue of Hermes of Praxiteles, a masterpiece of ancient Greek sculpture, and artifacts that highlight daily life, religion and art of the ancient inhabitants.
A visit to Ancient Olympia is not only an experience for the eyes and the mind; it is also a spiritual journey. It is a place that invites you to reflect on the values of peace, cooperation and sport, which remain just as important today.
It is more than an archaeological site; it is an experience that bridges the past with the present. As you leave, you will feel that you have come into contact with the heart of ancient Greek civilization and the roots of the modern world.
