Olympia is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Wandering among the columns and platforms of these ruins, it's easy to imagine the original Olympics. The “birthplace of the Olympics” still has enough traces and artifacts to take you back in time. A few years ago, I spent a day wandering this wondrous place while the spring flowers were at their peak. So, find out about the highlights and why spring is the best time to tour the ruins of Olympia, Greece.
Background of Olympia, the original Olympic Games in Greece
Olympia, located on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, was originally the site of the Olympic Games. It is located in the Alpheios River Valley, about 18 km from the Ionian Sea. The Olympics were held every four years from 8 to 1000.Day 4th century BCDay Century Advertising. The game encompassed more than just sports. Moreover, they symbolized the peace and nobility of healthy competition with the reward of olive wreaths. 1,500 years later, in 1896, the first modern world Olympics began in Greece.
In addition to the Olympic Games, the site is also an important Panhellenic religious sanctuary in ancient Greece. It was dedicated to Zeus, the father of the 12 Olympian gods, and his wife Hera. Also called Altis, this was the sacred grove and sanctuary of Zeus. It also had over 70 buildings, including the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Palaestra, and the Philippeon. Moreover, the great altar of Zeus is where they made great sacrifices. There are also various sculptures such as the famous ones. Hermes of Praxiteles and frostbite Pioneeros Nike.
Highlights of my spring Olympia Greece ruins tour
At the cruise port, pottery, I rode alone on a modern train for the 25 miles to Olympia, arriving in 45 minutes. Then the archaeological site is within walking distance from the train. I didn't take a tour, but just wandered around the complex on a spring afternoon in April. Luckily, I arrived at the perfect time when the wildflowers and Judas trees were in full bloom. Overall, I was in awe of the numerous purple-lilac Judas flower trees and yellow wildflowers along with the remaining stone platforms and Doric columns. In contrast, the new colors of spring illuminated the ancient sacred ruins.
I felt like I wanted to explore everything without having to tour. It was a truly beautiful spring day and it was fantastic to be in a historic place at my own pace. Overall I spent at least two hours wandering around and taking some amazing photos of the flower displays next to the ruins.
I walked by the temple dedicated to Zeus and his consort Hera. There was only one Doric column left standing next to the ruins of the Temple of Zeus near Kronos Hill. In comparison, the temple of Hera still had three pillars standing between the platform and the stones.
Philippeion was a circular Ionic monument made of limestone and marble. It was built to symbolize Philip II of Macedon's defeat of the classical Greek army. In addition, Philip had a huge Chryselephantine (ivory and gold) statue of Zeus carved by Phidias. This sculpture was named one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
There is a restored version of the workshop of the great sculptor Phidias, who created the large Chryselephantine statue of Zeus.
I walked past the open lawn where the stadium once stood. The only traces are the limestone archway or hall and entrance to the stadium. (The photo below)
The largest number of Doric columns I have ever seen lined up where the Palaestra used to be. The venue was used as part of a gym for wrestling, boxing and jumping. This is the best place for the beautiful Judas trees to bloom. (The photo below)
Olympia Museum
archaeological museum: This is one of the best museums in Greece containing ancient ruins and local discoveries. It includes famous statues such as Nike Paionios and Hermes of Praxiteles.
Olympic History Museum: It is located inside the Archaeological Museum and displays everything related to the Olympic Games and events.
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Overall Olympia Greece Ruins Tour
This is one of my favorite tours exploring archaeological sites. And what made this place even more special was that we were there while the spring flowers were blooming. The symbolic juxtaposition of old and new tells a deeper story about the cycle of life. From an ancient relic of the past, it is reborn for creative evolution.