Olympia

In the western Peloponnese, in the region that is commonly referred to as the “valley of the gods,” Ancient Olympia became the most revered sacred site of Ancient Greece. It was also the birthplace of the Olympic Games, which were the most significant sporting events in the history of ancient Greece. Beginning in 776 B.C., all Greeks, regardless of where they lived in the world at the time, would come together every four years, and all hostilities would be suspended so that everyone could participate in these games in the spirit of sportsmanship. In the same way that it was in the past, Olympia is today a well-known destination and a significant monument that is recognized all over the world.

Olympia is a little hamlet that is surrounded by souvenir stores and restaurants, and it is designed to accommodate the large number of visitors that travel by coach to visit Ancient Olympia, which is the most well-known attraction in the Peloponnese. The point at where myth and reality meet is here. Zeus is said to have organized the first Olympic Games in order to commemorate his victory over his father Kronos in wrestling, according to one of the many various versions available. This is the spot where the concept that today draws states together, despite their differences, for the sake of friendly athletic rivalry was born, just as it was some two thousand eight hundred years ago.

Olympia’s remains may be found 500 meters to the south of the settlement, on the other side of the Kladeos River. Spend some time thinking about the impact that this location has had over the course of millennia while you stroll about or stand at the starting line of the old stadium. Every four years, this is the location where the Olympic torch is ceremoniously lit. The beginning of the Games took place here.