Athens to Ancient Olympia Tour
A visit to the birthplace of the Olympic Games and Olympism
A visit to the birthplace of the Olympic Games and Olympism
Olympia cultivated high ideals from ancient times. In the beautiful site of Olympia, at the confluence of Alpheus and Kladeos river, the matrix of history gave birth to the highest human ideal, of peace, sportsmanship and greatness; the "athletic ideal" was the primary legacy of the Olympic Games, based on the philosophy of the well-balanced development of the body, personality and mind. Therefore, an athletic victory was considered a credit to both the athlete's physical and moral virtues. Here, where the only prize given was an olive wreath and sacred truce was instituted by all city - states since 776 BC, emerged the Ancient Immortal Spirit «which is beautiful, great and true…» (lyrics from the hymn of the Games, written by the famous Greek poet, Costis Palamas. Live a unique experience at an affordable tour in one of the most important sanctuaries of ancient Greece: the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Outstanding Universal Value The sanctuary of Olympia, in the North West of the Peloponnese, in the Regional Unit of Eleia (Elis), lies in a valley formed by the confluence of Alpheios and Kladeos rivers, in a setting of unique natural beauty and serenity. The sanctuary soon became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece, celebrated throughout the then-known world, a national shrine of the Greeks and was placed under the protection of Zeus, in whose honor the Pan-Hellenic Games were held every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD, when they were abolished by the Christian Byzantine Emperor Theodosius I. Its history dates back to the end of the Neolithic times (4th millennium BC), as the earliest finds indicate, while during the 10th and 9th century BC it became the center of worship of Zeus, father of the 12 Olympian gods. Some of the most remarkable works of art and technique were created for the Altis, the sacred grove of wild olive trees and center of the sanctuary. Great artists, such as Pheidias, have left their personal mark of inspiration and creativity, offering the world unique artistic creations. This universal site was the birthplace of the Olympic Idea, known as “Olympism”, making Olympia a world- symbol of peace and noble competition. Here too, prominence was given to the three core values of excellence (striving to be the best in all that we do, as individuals and as groups working toward common goals), friendship (building a peaceful and better world through sport) and respect (for ourselves, for one another, for the rules, for fair play and for the environment)… Authenticity The sanctuary of Olympia and its surrounding area are preserved in almost intact condition, from ancient times till today. In Altis, Zeus’ sacred grove, the same tree and plant species are found as in antiquity. The ancient monuments and the votives, which are displayed in the Museum of Olympia, haven’ t undergone any intervention in form or content. When visiting the archaeological site of Olympia, the visitor of today can feel the spiritual and ideological power of the Olympian landscape. Integrity In 2007, the area surrounding the sanctuary of Olympia was hit by massive blazes which raged for 3 days engulfing villages and forests and destroying a great part of the Peloponnese, albeit not irreparably. Through immediate and coordinated efforts the natural environment was soon restored to its original beauty, without significant alterations, while the ancient monuments within the sanctuary were not affected and are still preserved in very good condition.
We are certain that your visit to the Valley of the Gods will be an unforgettable one!
1.Northwest Propylon 2. Prytaneion 3. Philippeion 4. Temple of Hera 5. Pelopion 6. Nymphaeum of Herodes Atticus, 7. Metroon 8. Treasuries 9. Crypt (arched way to the stadium) 10. Stadium 11. Echo Stoa 12. Building of Ptolemy II and Arsinoe II, 13. Hestia stoa 14. Hellenistic building 15. Temple of Zeus 16. Altar of Zeus 17. Ex-voto of Achaeans 18. Ex-voto of Mikythos, 19. Nike of Paeonius 20. Gymnasion 21. Palaestra 22. Theokoleon 23. Heroon 24. Pheidias' workshop and paleochristian basilica, 25. Baths of Kladeos 26. Greek baths 27. and 28. Hostels 29. Leonidaion 30. South baths 31. Bouleuterion 32. South portico 33. Villa of Nero
Our tour packages don’t include a professional licensed tour guide, in order to be more affordable to our clients. However your driver will provide substantial & enough information for all the locations that you'll visit, within the car or outside the sites.
Notice that you could choose from the below choices.
a/ You can have your driver - tour Leader to accompany you. ( No additional cost)
b/ We can provide upon request a Professional tour guide.
c/ For tours that are taking place outside Athens we can always book a local tour guide in each place of visit , upon your request.
Whatever your choice might be, kindly send your request and we will inform you of the additional cost if that exists!
In case you'd like to be picked up by us at Athens International Airport "El Venizelos", we offer you transportation in significantly better price.
Our representative will welcome you at the Arrival Hall, holding a sign with your name written on it ,will help you with your luggage and escort you to the car.
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Itinerary [total duration approx. 10 1/2 hours] |
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Car Type: For your chauffeured transportation, we provide fully air-conditioned vehicles that meet all technical and security standards. Depending on the number of participants, you can choose: a/ Sedan- type vehicle, new Octavia 7 or Mercedes, capacity 1 to 4 pax (depending on availability) b/ Mini Van, capacity 4 to 8 pax (depending on availability) c/ SUV- type vehicle, capacity 1 to 5 pax (depending on availability) Notes: 1) Child safety seats available upon request 2) Luggage restrictions may apply |
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Activity level: Easy - Moderate |
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Dress Code: It is advisable to wear comfortable, rubber-soled shoes. During the summer months, a hat and light colored garments will also be required for this tour. |
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Max Group Size: 12-14 persons |