Palaestra: Ancient Training Grounds of Olympia
Explore the ruins of the Palaestra in Ancient Olympia, where athletes trained for wrestling, boxing, and pankration in preparation for the ancient Games.
The Palaestra in Ancient Olympia, dating back to the 3rd century BC, was a training facility for wrestlers, boxers, and pankration athletes. This square building, with its central courtyard and surrounding colonnades, was a vital part of the athletes' preparation for the Olympic Games.
A brief summary to Palaestra
- Archaia Olympia, 270 65, GR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
- Take time to read the informational plaques to fully appreciate the history and significance of the site.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site entrance, head east on the main path. You'll pass the Temple of Zeus on your left. Continue straight until you reach the end of the archaeological area. Palaestra is located approximately 500 meters ahead on your right, just past the Olympic Stadium.
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Public Transport
Archaia Olympia is accessible by bus from Athens. Take the KTEL bus from Athens, Leoforou Kifisou - KTEL, to Krestena. From Krestena, you may need to take a local bus or taxi to reach Archaia Olympia and the archaeological site. Bus fare from Athens to Krestena is approximately $43–$49. Local transport costs will vary.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Archaia Olympia. A short taxi ride from the town center or the bus station to the Palaestra at the archaeological site will typically cost around €5-€10. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Altar of Hera
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Sikyonian Treasury
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Altar of Zeus
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Metroon
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Treasures of Olympia
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South Stoa
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Ancient Olympia Parking Lot
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Statue of Zeus at Olympia
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Kyllini
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Chapel of Agios Nikolaos
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St. Nicholas Beach
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Banana Beach
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Porto Zorro Beach
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DAFNI BEACH
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Monastery Panagia Skopiotissa
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Unmissable attractions to see
Site of Original Olympic Games
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Philippeion
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Ancient Gymnasium
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Workshop of Phidias - Early Christian basilica
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Πρυτανείο Αρχαίας Ολυμπίας
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Archaeological Site of Olympia
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Temple of Hera
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Temple of Zeus
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Nymphaeum
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Bouleutḗrion
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Stadium Gate
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Mount Kronios
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House of Nero
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Altar of Demeter Hamyne
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Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity
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Essential places to dine
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Mythos, Family Grill Tavern
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Symposio tavern
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Taverna Orestis
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cafe top's
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Αμβροσία - Ambrosia Garden
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Ariston
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Aegean Restaurant Cafe
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Rodo Cafe
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Πολύγευστον Authentic Greek Street Food
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Vasilakis
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Pheidias Grill House
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Zeus Restaurant-cafe-bar
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Anesis grill tavern [ψητοπωλειο Ζουνης]
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop of the Museum of Ancient Olympia
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Krypte ArtShop
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Zeus
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Leather Store Nebris
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Kotinos shop, Ancient Olympia - Κατάστημα σουβενίρ Αρχαία Ολυμπία
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Olympic Corner
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Hotel Europa Olympia
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Seagull beach bar
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Lime Bar , Katakolo
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Marrone Brasserie Wine Bar
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Vrahos Beach Snack Bar
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Porto Azzuro Beach Bar
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Aris Bezos Café Food & Wine
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Beach Bar Ma,Yo Gianiskari
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La Luna Bar Zante
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