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Ancient Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games, one of the most prestigious sporting events in ancient Greece. On this tour from Kalamata, you'll step back in time to the era when the Games were first held. You'll explore ancient Olympia with a guided walking tour around the archaeological site and museum, followed by some free time for lunch in the modern town. Anna, one of our expert local guides, says, "although it is most famous as the home of sporting competitions, Olympia is also an important religious centre dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods. The Olympic Games were held in honour of Zeus, and athletes would offer sacrifices and pray to the gods for victory."
After travelling north from Kalamata you'll arrive at the ruins of Olympia, which will be brought to life as your guide regales you with anecdotes and history while you explore this open-air history book. Olympia was one of the largest sanctuaries in ancient Greece – a centre of worship where a religious festival was the major event and the sports contest was second to this.
You'll take a guided tour of the site where the ancient Olympic Games were held, including the stadium and accommodation for visiting officials. You'll also set eyes on the ruins of Temple of Zeus – once the largest in the Peloponnese – where one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Statue of Zeus, was housed. It was over 40 feet tall and made of ivory and gold. After your guided tour, you'll have free time for shopping before heading back.
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