Archaeological Site of Olympia
Archaeological Site of Olympia
The Archaeological Site of Olympia is one of the most significant historical spots in Greece, where the ancient Olympic Games were born back in 776 BCE. Walking through this vast complex, you can almost hear the cheers of spectators from thousands of years ago when athletes competed for honor and olive wreaths.
The site includes remains of the Temple of Zeus, which once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - a massive gold and ivory statue of Zeus created by the sculptor Phidias. You'll also find the ruins of the stadium, gymnasiums, wrestling schools, baths, and various monuments that once made this place buzzing with activity every four years.
What's fascinating about Olympia is how it connected to Greek politics and religion. The games weren't just sporting events but religious festivals honoring Zeus. During the Olympics, a sacred truce was declared across Greece, allowing athletes and spectators to travel safely to the games. The flame lighting ceremony that happens before modern Olympic Games is still performed here using the sun's rays and a parabolic mirror, continuing a tradition that spans millennia.
The nearby Archaeological Museum of Olympia houses sculptures and artifacts found at the site, including the famous Hermes of Praxiteles statue. Together with the ruins, they tell the story of one of humanity's oldest and most influential sporting traditions.
ratings
| Category | Rating | Your Rating |
|---|---|---|
| atmosphere |
|
|
| culture |
|
|
| food |
|
|
| scenery |
|
|
| tourism |
|
|
Things to do in Archaeological Site of Olympia
Top things to do in Archaeological Site of Olympia by www.greeka.com
Where to stay in Archaeological Site of Olympia
Best hotels in Archaeological Site of Olympia:
-
Neda Hotel (budget hotel)
Neda Hotel is a charming hotel located in the center of Olympia, just a short stroll from the renowned archaeological site. The rooms are cozy, and many come with balconies that offer pleasant views of the town or the surrounding forest. A highlight of the hotel is the rooftop breakfast area, where you can enjoy a delicious buffet while taking in the sweeping views of the area.
The hotel features a beautiful pool and garden, providing a peaceful spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. In the evenings, you can enjoy a drink at the pool bar while soaking in the moonlit views of ancient Olympia. The staff is friendly and always ready to offer great suggestions for local restaurants and attractions. With its convenient location, comfortable amenities, and excellent service, Neda Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the historic region of Olympia.
-
Hotel Europa Olympia (medium range hotel)
Hotel Europa Olympia is a fantastic choice if you're visiting Ancient Olympia. Situated on top of Drouvas Hill, the hotel offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valley. The rooms are spacious and clean, featuring marble floors and private balconies where you can unwind and enjoy the scenery.
One of the standout features of the hotel is its outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The pool bar is a great spot to enjoy a drink while lounging by the water. There’s also an excellent Greek restaurant serving delicious local dishes. The hotel is just a short drive from the main archaeological sites and the town center. The friendly staff is always happy to provide helpful recommendations, making Hotel Europa Olympia an ideal base for discovering this historic region.
book now on booking.com