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Archaeological Site of Olympia: Birthplace of the Olympic Games

Walk the paths of ancient athletes and discover the birthplace of the Olympic Games at this historic Peloponnesian sanctuary.

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Explore the ruins of Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games in 776 B.C. Discover the ancient stadium, temples dedicated to Zeus and Hera, and the surrounding athletic structures within a lush valley setting. The site offers a glimpse into the religious, political, and athletic heart of ancient Greece.

A brief summary to Archaeological Site of Olympia

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site is extensive and involves a good amount of walking on gravel paths.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Purchase a combined ticket to access the Archaeological Site, the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games, and the Museum of the History of Excavations in Olympia.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options for refreshments within the site.
  • Consider visiting after 2 PM or 3 PM to avoid the tour bus crowds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the modern town of Olympia, the Archaeological Site is easily accessible on foot. Follow the main road (Praxitelous Kondyli) east, and you'll find the entrance to the site within a 10-15 minute walk. The route is well-signposted. There are no costs associated with walking to the site.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Olympia bus station, the Archaeological Site is a short walk away. From the bus station, head east on Archimedes Street, then turn left onto Praxitelous Kondyli. The entrance to the site will be on your right. Bus tickets from nearby cities like Pyrgos cost approximately €2-€3. Taxis are available in Olympia and a short ride to the site will cost around €5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in the modern town of Olympia. A short taxi ride from the town center to the entrance of the Archaeological Site typically costs around €5-€8. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Car

    If driving, follow the signs to Olympia. Parking is available near the site, but it can get crowded during peak season. Parking fees range from €3-€5 per day. From the parking area, the entrance to the Archaeological Site is a short walk.

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Discover more about Archaeological Site of Olympia

The Archaeological Site of Olympia, nestled in a serene valley in the Peloponnese, is a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient Greece. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it rose to prominence in the 10th century B.C. as a center for the worship of Zeus. The Altis, the sacred grove, housed a remarkable concentration of ancient Greek masterpieces. Here, every four years, the Olympic Games united the Greek world from 776 B.C. to 393 A.D.. The Games fostered values of fair competition and the Sacred Truce. Visitors can explore the remains of temples dedicated to Zeus and Hera, the stadium where athletes competed, and the Palaestra, where they trained. The Temple of Zeus, the largest in the Peloponnese, once housed a massive gold and ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The adjacent Archaeological Museum displays a stunning collection of artifacts unearthed at Olympia, including the statue of Hermes by Praxiteles and arms/armor. Today, the Archaeological Site of Olympia stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, inviting visitors to walk through history and connect with the spirit of the ancient Olympic Games. The site is expansive, with gravel paths, and the caretakers ensure the grounds are well-maintained. The Olympic flame is still lit at the Temple of Hera, carrying on a tradition that began in 1936.

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