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Archaeological Site of Olympia: Birthplace of the Olympic Games

Walk in the footsteps of ancient athletes and gods at the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Explore temples, stadiums, and more.

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Explore the ruins of Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games in 776 B.C. Discover the remains of temples dedicated to Zeus and Hera, athletic training areas, and the original stadium, all set within a lush valley in the Peloponnese.

A brief summary to Archaeological Site of Olympia

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking on gravel paths.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the summer months.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the site and museums without rushing.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of the modern town of Olympia, the Archaeological Site is easily accessible on foot. Head east on the main road, Olympias Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Pindou Street. Turn left onto Pindou Street and walk for about 300 meters. You will see the sign for the Ancient Olympia Parking Lot on your right. The address is Πραξιτέλη Κονδύλη 4. It's a straightforward walk of about 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus in Olympia, the bus station is within walking distance of the Archaeological Site. Follow the signs towards the site, which is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the bus station. KTEL buses connect Olympia with Pyrgos. From Pyrgos, you can connect to other destinations, including Athens. Bus tickets from Athens to Pyrgos cost approximately €20-€30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Olympia and can provide a quick and convenient way to reach the Archaeological Site from your hotel or other locations in the town. A short taxi ride within Olympia should cost around €5-€10.

  • Parking

    If driving, there is a parking lot available near the entrance to the Archaeological Site. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking lot can get crowded, especially during peak season. The Ancient Olympia Parking Lot is open 24 hours.

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Discover more about Archaeological Site of Olympia

The Archaeological Site of Olympia, nestled in a serene valley in the western Peloponnese, is a testament to ancient Greece's religious, political, and athletic achievements. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the birthplace of the Olympic Games, held every four years for over a millennium, starting in 776 B.C.. The games honored Zeus, the father of the gods, and drew visitors from across the Greek world. Explore the Altis, the sacred grove dedicated to the gods, which houses the remains of the Temple of Zeus, once home to the massive Statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although the statue is lost to time, the temple's ruins still inspire awe. Visit the Temple of Hera, one of the oldest examples of monumental temple buildings in Greece, where the Olympic flame is lit to this day. Walk through the ancient stadium, where athletes competed in running, wrestling, and other sports. Imagine the roar of the crowd as you stand on the same ground where legends were made. Explore the Palaestra and Gymnasium, where athletes trained for competition. Discover the Philippeion, a circular building dedicated by Philip II of Macedon and completed by Alexander the Great. The site also includes the remains of administrative buildings, treasuries, and other monuments. The Archaeological Museum of Olympia displays a vast collection of artifacts found at the site, including sculptures from the Temple of Zeus, the Nike of Paionios, and the Hermes of Praxiteles. Visiting Olympia is an immersive experience that connects you to the ideals of fair competition, sacred truce, and the enduring legacy of the Olympic Games.

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