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Bouleuterion: The Heart of Ancient Olympia's Governance

Explore the ruins of the Bouleuterion in Ancient Olympia, the political and administrative center where the Olympic Games were organized.

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The Bouleuterion in Ancient Olympia was the council house where the Elean Senate, responsible for organizing the Olympic Games, convened. Here, athletes registered, took oaths, and penalties were decided. The ruins offer a glimpse into the political and administrative functions of this historical site.

A brief summary to Bouleutḗrion

  • Archaia Olympia, 270 65, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the archaeological site has uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are restrictions on consuming food and beverages within the site.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during summer.
  • Purchase a combined ticket to access the Archaeological Site, Archaeological Museum, and other museums in Olympia.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main entrance of the Archaeological Site of Olympia, the Bouleuterion is a short walk south of the Temple of Zeus. Follow the marked paths within the site; the Bouleuterion's remains are easily accessible and well-signposted.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Olympia bus station, walk east towards the archaeological site. Enter the site and follow the signs to the Temple of Zeus; the Bouleuterion is located just south of it. Bus tickets from Pyrgos to Olympia cost approximately €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    From the town of Olympia, a taxi to the Archaeological Site is a convenient option. The Bouleuterion is located within the site, a short walk from the entrance. A short taxi ride within Olympia will typically cost around €5-€7.

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Discover more about Bouleutḗrion

The Bouleuterion, or Council House, was one of the most important buildings in the sanctuary of Ancient Olympia, serving as the seat of the Elean Senate. This is where the members were responsible for the organization of the ancient Olympic Games. The Bouleuterion played a major role in the administration. It was within these walls that the participation of athletes was decided, athletes registered and drew lots, and penalties for offenses were given. The Bouleuterion is situated just outside the sacred enclosure of the Altis, south of the Temple of Zeus. Construction began in the 6th century BC and was completed in the 4th century BC, with minor additions and changes made during the Roman period. The building complex comprised two main buildings, a square room, and a stoa. The north wing was built in the sixth century BC and the south wing a century later. Each wing had a central row of seven columns and a cross-wall cutting off its apse; each apse was divided into two by a central wall. Inside the Bouleuterion were the altar and the statue of Zeus Horkeios, where athletes gave their oath before the start of the Olympic Games. Competitors, their relatives, and their trainers swore they would be guilty of no foul play, and judges swore they would be fair and not accept bribes. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this historic structure, marveling at its architectural splendor and reflecting on its significance in shaping the democratic ideals of Western civilization.

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