The birthplace of the Olympic Games in a green Alpheios valley.
Ancient Olympia preserves the stadium, temples, training buildings and workshops of a sanctuary that shaped sport and religion for a millennium.
Athletes and pilgrims gathered at Olympia for games held in honour of Zeus. The stadium, Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus and palaestra reveal the event's sacred and practical world, while the workshop of Pheidias connects to the lost gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus.
The Archaeological Museum holds the Hermes of Praxiteles, Nike of Paionios and temple pediments. Separate museums cover the history of the Games and excavations, making Olympia a full-day visit for serious interest.
Practical information
Trains and buses run from Pyrgos or Katakolo on variable schedules. Start early, allow time for multiple museums and carry water across the large site.
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