Ancient Olympia
The birthplace of the Olympic Games - the ruined sanctuary where athletes competed for over a thousand years, with the original stadium, a UNESCO site.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
Ancient Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games, the sacred sanctuary in the green western Peloponnese where athletes from across the Greek world competed every four years for over a millennium. Its ruins, shaded by pines, include the great temple of Zeus that held a wonder of the world, the workshop of Phidias, and the original stadium where visitors still line up on the ancient start.
What you actually see
- The original stadium - the ancient running track with its stone start line.
- The Temple of Zeus - the ruins of the temple that held a Wonder of the World.
- The sanctuary ruins - the treasuries, palaestra and workshop of Phidias.
- The museum - the sculptures, including the Hermes of Praxiteles.
When to go
Spring and autumn for mild weather and green surroundings; summer is hot, though the site has more shade than most. It is far from Athens, best combined with a Peloponnese trip or a cruise stop.
Honest expectations
It is far in the western Peloponnese, a long way from Athens, best on a wider tour or cruise. The ruins are tumbled and low, so the stadium and museum bring it alive more than the foundations. It can be busy with cruise groups.
Nearby
The green hills of the western Peloponnese surround it; the coast and Patras are within reach.
What to pack for Ancient Olympia
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
