South Stoa: Gateway to Ancient Olympia

Explore the South Stoa in Olympia, the historic gateway where ancient athletes and visitors entered the sacred grounds of the Olympic Games.

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South Stoa

The South Stoa served as the main southern entrance to the sanctuary of Olympia. Built around 360-350 BC, this long hall provided a formal entrance and gathering space for visitors. Today, its remains offer a glimpse into the architectural grandeur of ancient Greece.

A brief summary to South Stoa

Archaia Olympia, 270 65, GR

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven terrain while exploring the ruins.
Bring water and sun protection, especially during the hot summer months, as there is limited shade.
Consider hiring a local guide to fully appreciate the historical significance of the South Stoa and the surrounding site.

Getting There

Walking

From the main entrance of the Archaeological Site of Olympia, walk south, following the marked paths towards the Bouleuterion. The South Stoa is located just south of the Bouleuterion, outside the main Altis enclosure. The walk is short and well-signposted within the archaeological site.
Public Transport

From the town of Olympia, walk or take a local bus towards the Archaeological Site. Enter the site through the main entrance and follow the walking directions. Local bus fares are typically around €1-€2.
Taxi

Taxis are available in the town of Olympia. A short taxi ride to the entrance of the Archaeological Site will cost approximately €5-€7. From there, follow the walking directions within the site.

Discover more about South Stoa

The South Stoa marked the southern boundary and main entrance to the sanctuary of Olympia. Constructed around 360-350 BC, roughly contemporaneously with the Stoa of Echo, it stood just outside the sacred precinct of the Altis, south of the Bouleuterion. This impressive structure, measuring eighty meters in length and thirteen and a half meters in width, was built from shell-limestone and rested upon a marble platform. Its southern facade, facing the Alpheios river, featured thirty-four Doric columns, with six more columns on each side. A protruding portico, seven meters wide, adorned the center of the facade, supported by six Doric columns at the front and three on each side. The interior was divided lengthwise by a row of seventeen Corinthian columns. In its time, the South Stoa served as a grand entrance to the Olympic grounds, welcoming athletes, dignitaries, and visitors. The area surrounding the Stoa included buildings for sanctuary personnel, athletes, and distinguished guests, such as gymnasiums, exercise grounds, and Roman hostels. Today, while only partially excavated, the South Stoa's ground plan is visible, offering visitors a tangible connection to the ancient world.