14 Places to Visit In Olympia

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Historical Site (6)
Museum (4)
Religious Experience (1)
Temple (1)

1. Temple of Zeus

16 km from city center

Temple

The temple of Zeus is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Dedicated to lord Zeus, the temple dates back to the 5th century BCE. Sadly, an earthquake damaged the temple and the statue of Zeus, and only the ruins now remain. It is best to hire a guide to learn the history of the magnificent temple.

16 km from city center

Historical Site

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of Hera was originally a joint temple of Hera and Zeus. It was at this temple's altar that the Olympic flame was lit and carried throughout the globe. Built in 590 BC, this temple was destroyed in an earthquake around the 4th century and now lives in its ruins. Today, the Olympic flame is still lit here and carried to all parts of the world where the Olympi (Read More)c Games are being held.

16 km from city center

Historical Site

The Stadium at Olympia is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Olympic games used to be held. This holy place for ancient Greeks was initially structured so that the spectators could witness the games and ceremonies from the foothills of Mount Cronion. With a seating capacity of 20,000 (45,000) people, most seats made of mud still remain.

16 km from city center

Museum

One of the oldest museums in Greece, the Olympia Archaeological Museum houses the discoveries from the nearby areas, including collections from its prehistory to Roman rule. Magnificent masterpieces from the long history of the birthplace of the Olympic Games, as well as works from thousands of years of art and discoveries from the excavation of the Zeus sanctuary, can also be found here.

16 km from city center

Historical Site

One of the finest examples of monumental architecture, the Philippeion is the only circular structure in the whole of Altis. Dating back to 338 BC, this temple was built by Philip II of Macedon following his victory over Athens and their allies at the Battle of Chaeronea. It is also strategically placed within the sacred perimeter.

16 km from city center

Historical Site

The Palaestra at Olympia is located close to the river Kladeos. These are the first buildings you see when entering Olympia. The primary feature of Palaestra was to serve as a training area for combat sports. Today one can wander in and out of the ruins of those buildings.

7. Museum of Ancient Olympic Games

16 km from city center

Museum

The Museum of Ancient Olympic Games is one of Greece's most important archaeological museums. Found in 1886, this is the first museum of Olympia exhibiting a collection of artwork, objects and paintings narrating the history of the Olympic games and their hosts. The collections can be traced back to the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, where the Olympic games were born and hosted.

15 km from city center

Museum

Located in the center of ancient Olympia, the Archimedes museum is devoted to the great mathematician and physicist Archimedes. It houses over 350 models of ancient inventions. These exhibits are accompanied by interactive games that help learn about the ancient technology in a fun way.

Religious Experience

The lighting of the Olympic Flame happens months before the actual games begin. However, as a tradition, the flame is lit in a ceremony hosted in close proximity to the Temple of Hera. This experience can be witnessed by tourists if travelling to Olympia at the time.

16 km from city center

Historical Site

Also known as the Senate house or the Council Assembly House, the Bouleuterion is an ancient building that housed the council members of the ancient city of Greece. Dating back to the 6th century BC, this building used to function as a public meeting place embellished with mosaic and marble to become an odeon. Located right outside the Atlis, the ruins of the senate house can be explored.

16 km from city center

Museum

The Museum of History of the Excavations displays excavations of Olympia from 1875 onwards. It houses a collection of paintings, photographs, documents and other visual materials showcasing the systematic excavation of the sanctuary.

113 km from city center

Historical Site

Lying on the foothills of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is a town and an archaeological site located close to Olympia. This ancient town houses the Oracle of Apollo and many important Greek temples. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi was considered the center of the world.

98 km from city center

Island

Galaxidi Is a seaside town and a municipality in Central Greece. Once used to be a marine power, Galaxidi Is now a famous sea resort town for travellers around Delphi or Patras. Studded with neoclassical houses, stunning ports, and mansions, Galaxidi's countryside vibe makes it an ideal getaway for people who want to unwind.

119 km from city center

City

Corinth City is majorly known for its archaeological site, housing historical monuments like the temple of Apollo, the Ancient Corinth Archaeological Museum, the Theatre, the Roman Odeon, and the Corinth Canal. Corinth is usually considered a day trip to visit the canal, which serves as a passage between the Aegean and Ionian seas.