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Prytaneion of Ancient Olympia: Center of Administration

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Explore the ruins of the Prytaneion in Ancient Olympia, the ancient administrative heart of the Olympic Games and sanctuary.

The Prytaneion was one of Olympia's oldest and most important buildings, serving as the administrative and political center of the sanctuary and the Olympic Games. Though the interior is not accessible, its historical significance makes it a worthwhile landmark to appreciate from the outside.

A brief summary to Πρυτανείο Αρχαίας Ολυμπίας

  • JJQH+JP, Archaia Olympia, 270 65, GR

Local tips

  • While the interior is closed, take time to walk around the exterior and imagine the bustling administrative activity that once took place here.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Archaeological Museum of Olympia to see artifacts related to the site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Prytaneion is located within the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia. Once inside the site, it's a short walk from the entrance. Follow the main path, keeping an eye out for signs directing you towards the main monuments. The Prytaneion is situated in the northwest corner of the Altis, opposite the Gymnasium. As the site is relatively compact, reaching the Prytaneion is easily done on foot. No additional costs are involved beyond the entrance ticket to the archaeological site.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus in Olympia, the archaeological site is a short walk from the town center. From the bus station, head towards the main street and follow the signs for the archaeological site. The Prytaneion is inside the site. Local bus tickets from nearby towns like Pyrgos cost approximately €2-€3. The entrance fee to the archaeological site is typically around €12.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in the modern town of Olympia. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the town center to the entrance of the archaeological site will typically cost between €5 and €10. From the entrance, the Prytaneion is a short walk inside the site. Remember that taxi fares in Greece are calculated per kilometer, with a possible additional charge for calling for a taxi. The entrance fee to the archaeological site is around €12.

Discover more about Πρυτανείο Αρχαίας Ολυμπίας

The Prytaneion of Ancient Olympia, located in the northwest corner of the sacred precinct of the Altis, opposite the Gymnasium, was the heart of administrative and political life in the sanctuary and the center for managing the Olympic Games. Constructed at the end of the 6th or beginning of the 5th century BC by the Eleans, it initially was a small structure that expanded over time with additions and modifications.The Prytaneion served as the seat of the prytaneis, officials responsible for sacrifices to the gods, which occurred monthly. The Eleans also hosted official dinners here in honor of Olympic victors. Pausanias noted that the Prytaneion housed the sacred hearth of the Common of the Eleans, where an eternal flame burned. The ashes from this hearth were mixed into the altar of Zeus, contributing to its size. Today, the interior is not accessible to visitors.

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