Olympia Vacations, Greece

Olympia is one of the most famous and visited destinations in the Greek region of Peloponnese. The main reason by which this destination is so famous is due to the fact that in this spot was were the ancient Olympic Games used to be held, a festivity which was not only important to this region but the rest of Greece and the entire world as well. This destination has been visited and explored by archeologists, historians, and scientists in general from the entire world as well as it is possible to see tourists from all places in it at almost any time of the year.

The Olympic Games of the city of Olympia used to be held every four years, in a period called the olympiad, as long ago as the year 775 BC. These games were so important for the city and all Greece that are still remembered and cause this spot to be visited by tourists from the entire world in a constant basis.

The city of Olympia is also famous by other elements and attractions, such as per example its impressive statue of Zeus. This city has a statue of great size, made of gold and ivory which represents the Greek God Zeus within a temple built in honor to this deity. This is one of the most interesting statues and attractions in Olympia as well as in the entire Peloponnese.

Some of the major discoveries and one of the most important excavations in the city of Olympia took place in the year 1829. In this year, a French expedition started some important excavations and discovered some of the most interesting elements in the area. After this French expedition, a German one followed their work and several important objects, such as tools, and the statue of Hermes of Praxiteles were found.

Olympia is situated in an area that is surrounded by hills and mountains in such a way that they provide a very peculiar and interesting background to this ancient spot. Meeting the city of Olympia, its antique statues and ruins can be one of the most memorable experiences tourists can have while exploring the Peloponnese.

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Things To Do and See in Olympia

Ancient Olympia (Archaia Olympia), Olympia
Attraction type: Historic site

Archaeological Museum at Olympia, Olympia
Attraction type: History museum

Museum of the Olympic Games, Olympia
Attraction type: Specialty museum; History museum

Hermes by Praxiteles, Olympia
Attraction type: Statue