Olympia

Olympia is an ancient site located in the western part of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. It is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of the Olympic Games, which were held in Olympia every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD.

The ancient site contains several structures and monuments, including the Temple of Zeus, which housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a statue of Zeus made of gold and ivory, and the Temple of Hera, dedicated to the wife of Zeus. The site also features a stadium and an athletes’ village, where competitors stayed during the games. Today, the ruins of Olympia are a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the ancient structures and learn about the history and significance of the Olympic Games. The modern Olympic Games, which began in Athens in 1896, continue to pay homage to the ancient tradition and legacy of the games that began in Olympia.

Recommended Resources

• How did the Ancient Olympic Games Begin – BBC (Website Link)
• World History Encyclopedia (Website Link)

Recommended Book

The Ancient Olympic Games by Jhonny Nunez