Ancient Olympia

The ancient ruins of Olympia can be reached by taking a ten euro round-trip train ride from the Greek port of Katakolo. The train ride is slow, but comfortable and interesting as it passes through small towns and sweeps through areas of dense growth in approaching the modern town of Olympia, a short walk from the archeological site. My anticipated return train never showed up, but another one came an hour later. Going early is probably wise.
The archeological site is interesting, if not very imposing, upon entering.

However, as soon as one becomes oriented and starts to appreciate all that occurred here from 776 BC, when the first Olympics took place, up until current times, when discoveries are still being made, the area becomes fascinating to explore. This column of the Temple of Zeus, home of the Statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was reconstructed for the 2004 Olympics.

The gold and ivory statue of Zeus has been missing for about 1,500 years, perhaps awaiting future discovery. Ancient Olympia's stadium has an entry way for athletes not unlike the tunnels from which today's athletes emerge.

As a runner, I could hardly resist running the length of the field, and was not the only person doing so.

Not often one gets to run on a 2,789 year old course.

These are remains from the Temple of Hera.

These columns are from the Philippeion, constructed by Philip II of Macedonia in 338 BC to celebrate military and athletic victories.

Here's another view.

One of the more interesting recent (1954-1958) discoveries is the workshop of Phidias, who created the Statue of Zeus (432 BC).

Here are some interior views.

 

Again, in these rooms a wonder of the ancient world was created.

In the Fifth Century, the workshop was transformed into an early Christian church. The rounded apse is visible in this exterior view.

A couple more views of ancient Olympia, home of the Olympic games between 776 BC and 394 AD.

Looking to the sky.

Walking back to the train station one passes through modern Olympia, a well-maintained tourist town.

Where one may consider wonders of the modern world.

Ciao.