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Altar of Zeus: The Heart of Ancient Olympia's Sacrifices

Discover the sacred Altar of Zeus in Olympia, a testament to ancient Greek piety and the heart of Olympic sacrifices.

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The Altar of Zeus in Olympia was not a monumental stone structure, but a sacred mound formed from centuries of accumulated ashes and bones from sacrifices offered to the king of the gods. This unique altar stood as a testament to the piety of the ancient Greeks and their enduring reverence for Zeus.

A brief summary to Altar of Zeus

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the archaeological site involves a good amount of walking.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the entire archaeological site and museum.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the Altar of Zeus and the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of modern Olympia, walk east on Olympias Street, the main road. Turn left onto Pindou Street. The Ancient Olympia Parking Lot will be on your right, after about 300 meters. The Altar of Zeus is located within the archaeological site. Purchase tickets at the entrance. Follow the marked paths within the site to reach the Temple of Zeus area where the altar was located. The walk from Olympia's center to the parking lot is about 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the central bus station in Olympia, take the local bus toward Archaia Olympia. Get off near the archaeological site entrance. Walk straight for about 200 meters to the Ancient Olympia Parking Lot at Πραξιτέλη Κονδύλη 4. The Altar of Zeus is within the archaeological site. Purchase tickets at the entrance and follow the marked paths to the Temple of Zeus. Check the bus schedule for return trips. Bus tickets within Olympia are approximately €1-€2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in the center of Olympia. A short taxi ride from the town center to the archaeological site will cost approximately €5-€10. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting. The Altar of Zeus is located inside the archaeological site. Purchase your tickets at the entrance.

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Discover more about Altar of Zeus

In ancient Greece, the altar was central to religious practice, especially animal sacrifice, marking a space as sacred to the gods. The Altar of Zeus at Olympia held particular significance, though unlike typical stone altars, it was constructed from the accumulated remains of centuries of offerings. Literary accounts, such as those by Pausanias in the 2nd century CE, describe the altar as being over 22 feet (approximately 7 meters) high. This imposing height reflected the countless sacrifices made to Zeus, the most powerful of the Olympian gods. The altar served as a focal point for worship and a tangible representation of the community's devotion. Despite its importance, the Altar of Zeus was never found during the German archaeological excavations at Olympia. Its location is based on hypothetical plans. The altar was built up from the ashes of all the previous sacrifices. This meant that the altar served as a display of the piety of the people of Olympia, and the extent to which they honored Zeus Olympios. The altar of Zeus had a huge significance. Though women could use the altar's lower stage (prothysis), only men could go to the top.

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