Olympia
Olympia is one of the most historically important gems of The Northern Peloponnese. It is a gorgeous place teeming with lush olive trees, shaded orchards, wildflowers, and an aura of peaceful antiquity. The lavish greenery that juxtaposes the barren ruins will charm visitors to Olympia, which is separated into two areas: Ancient Olympia, and the modern day village that lies 500 meters north. It is in Ancient Olympia that the remains of the first Olympic Games are found. This is the main destination for tourists looking to delve into Olympia's past and explore the art, sport, and culture that comprise the city's rich history. The tiny village north of there is where taverns and shops can be found, allowing tourists to bring home souvenirs and enjoy delightful Greek food.
The Olympic games began in Ancient Olympia in 776 BC as a religious celebration in honor of Zeus, the most important Greek god. They took place in the Altis, the sanctuary dedicated to the worship of Zeus. At that time, spectators from all over Europe and Asia Minor came to see the five-day festival, which was held during the summer. Foreigners could watch and cheer, but for many years only those who spoke Greek were allowed to compete. And at the beginning, women were not allowed as spectators inside the arena by any means. They could travel to Olympia and partake in festivities happening nearby, but were punished with death if they attempted to watch the sporting events inside the Altis. The Games consisted of foot races, chariot races, jumping contests, boxing, and wrestling. The festival was cancelled in the 4th century AD and was resurrected in its modern form in 1896 after the rediscovery of the ancient site. Today, the site of this historical event's beginning attracts millions of tourists annually.
Olympia is a living relic; a place where Greece's distant past is preserved. Ancient Olympia allows modern day tourists a glimpse into the epitome of Greek mythology and sport and does so in a refined and educational manner, with contemporary museums housing some of Greece's earliest remains. Visitors will enjoy the combination of artistic and athletic history so stunningly displayed here.
Docking & Local Transportation
Cruise ships visiting Olympia dock at the Port of Katakolon on the Ionian Coast just west of Olympia.
Buses are a popular way to get from the Port of Katakolon to Olympia. Buses can also be taken within Olympia relatively inexpensively, as can taxis, although most people choose to walk around town.
Local Interests
Modern day Olympia is a small village where hotels and tourist stores are located. This is where you can dine and shop, but it is in Ancient Olympia (a fifteen minute walk south) where tourists will spend most of their time.
History is the name of the game in Ancient Olympia. Tourists travel here from all over the world to explore the ancient sites and to absorb the rich essence of the ruins. Most visitors are advised to spend some time taking an overview tour of The Ancient Site before beginning their tour. You will find that there are numerous ways to see the ruins, which are all located in a compact, rectangular area, the Altis. A popular route includes a tour of the locations of the ancient Olympic games. The roman baths, the gymnasium, and swimming pools were all used by athletes competing in the Games, and are today impressive reminders of early sport.
From there you can visit the Temple of Hera, in the religious sanctuary. The statues here are said to be some of the finest examples of Greek sculpture remaining today. The legendary stories of the Greek gods are told in postings around the temples.
The Museum of the Olympic Games (Spiiopoulou Street, 26240-22544) displays a collection of Olympic photos, medals, clothing, and other athletic paraphernalia. Visitors to the museum can ask for a history lesson from the guards on staff, who are always willing to tell the story of the Olympic Games. The Archaeological Museum is a nice place to wind down a day of sightseeing. The art here ranges from Neolithic to Baroque and positively drips with the wealth and beauty of ancient Greece. This museum is also home to the famous Temple of Zeus statue and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Olympia.
Hike through the Sacred Precint on the northwest corner of the city, where the scenery is gorgeous. And for a real visual treat, head on over to the southwest corner of Altis and see the historic House of Nero, which also offers a nice place to see the sunset.
Activities
Shopping
Shopping in Olympia is limited to the main street, Leoforos Kondili. Here you will find gift shops that cater mainly to tourists. Jewelry, pottery, and rugs are the main items to purchase, as are handmade crafts made by local artists.
Galerie Orphee (Leoforos Kondili, 26240-23555) sells Greek music and contemporary art, and stands out among Olympia's other kitschy shops because its products are of such high quality.
Dining and Nightlife
Visitors to Olympia will have a relatively easy time choosing where to eat, as there are only a handful of taverns here. Most are pretty inexpensive, and almost all maintain a very casual atmosphere.
Taverna Bacchus (Miraka Village, 5km outside Olympia, 26240-22498) is a family-run tavern that is popular among locals and tourists alike because of its reputation for heaping portions. Chicken and beef are favorites here. Taverna Praxitelous (Spiliopoulou 7, 26240-23570) is known for its menu of appetizers. It specializes in cheeses and vegetables and offers Greek favorites like fried zucchini and feta cheese. For a more upscale feel, go to Antonios (39 Praxitelous, 26240-22547), a hotel with a restaurant inside that offers a breakfast buffet and elegant dinner selections. The chicken with rosemary is a house favorite.
Nightlife in Olympia is not the main attraction here. Antonios is home to a disco and a bar, both of which are popular on the weekends. Other than that, Olympia is a quiet place at night.