Explore Ancient Olympia on a small group day trip from Kalamata. The place where the heart of the Olympic Games beats! See the ruins of the Palaestra where the athletes would train. Discover artifacts excavated at the site at the museum, and stand at the spot where the Olympic flame is lit.
Depart Kalamata and cross the valley of the River Alpheus on the way to the western Peloponnese. Journey towards the city of Olympia, learning about Ancient Olympia along the way. Hear how the site served as a sanctuary of buildings associated with the ancient Olympic Games. Travel back to its foundations in 776 BC, when 3 Greek kings decided to turn the interest of their soldiers to something other than war.
The ethos and Olympic ideals of the ancient Greeks are what made the games so famous in the ancient world, along with the excellent preparation by the organizers and the massive participation of the athletes. Arrive at the archaeological site in less than 2 hours from your departure point. You will be taken to the entrance, from where you can explore at your own pace. Be overwhelmed by the energy of the athletes who trained in the first buildings you will encounter, including the ancient gymnasium and Palaestra.
Next, discover the workshop of Pheidias where the golden statue of Zeus (one of the 7 Wonders of the World) was created. Go to the site of the Leonidaion to see where the distinguished guests who attended the games would take lodgings.
Marvel at the Vouleuterio, where members of the Elean Senate, responsible for the organization of the games, would meet. Be dazzled by the magnificence of the Temples of Zeus and Hera, and then enter the ancient stadium through the Crypt. Imagine the agony felt by the athletes who performed in front of thousands of spectators. Benefit from the chance to get a photo taken at the spot where the Olympic flame is lit, even in modern times.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to see artifacts found at the site, and learn more about the magic of the Olympic idea. Your guide will be waiting for you at the exit of the museum to take you to the nearest restaurant, where you can try the excellent Mediterranean cuisine on offer. Purchase any last minute souvenirs in the traditional souvenir shops before heading back to Kalamata.
