Safekipedia
Ancient Greek archaeological sites in GreeceAncient OlympiaAncient Olympic GamesArchaeological sites in Western Greece

Olympia, Greece

Adapted from Wikipedia · Explorer experience

Archaeological remains of the Pelopeion in Olympia, with the Temple of Hera visible in the background.

Welcome to Olympia

Olympia is a special place in Greece. It is found in a region called Elis on the Peloponnese peninsula. This little town is famous because long ago, people held big games there. These games were called the ancient Olympic Games. They happened every four years, starting in 776 BC and going on until 393 AD. Today, we still have the Olympic Games to remember those happy times.

The Sacred Spot

In Olympia, there is a very important area called the Altis. This place was mostly for the god Zeus. People from all over ancient Greece came here to celebrate and honor the gods. Even though it is called Olympia, it is not near Mount Olympus, where the twelve Olympians were thought to live. The Altis had many beautiful buildings, like temples and open spaces for games and ceremonies.

Fun Buildings

Olympia has many old buildings, and some of them still stand today. One special place is the Pelopion, where people believed the famous king Pelops was buried. Another important spot is the stadium, where the very first games were held. The length of this stadium even became a way to measure distance, called a stadion. Sometimes, the stadium is used again for Olympic events. The town of Olympia helps everyone explore these amazing old ruins.

Images

Map showing the location of Archea Olymbia municipality in Western Greece.
Aerial view of the protected Natura 2000 area in Ancient Olympia, Greece.
Ruins of the ancient stadium at Olympia, Greece, where the Olympic Games were once held.
The Temple of Hera in Olympia, an ancient Greek temple.
An ancient Greek coin from the 105th Olympiad in 360 BC, featuring the god Zeus and the nymph Olympia, showcasing detailed artwork from the period.
The ancient Philippeion temple at Olympia, a historic Greek site dedicated to King Philip II of Macedon.
An ancient Greek training ground at Olympia, showing stone ruins and open space where athletes once practiced.
A view of the historic Stadium of Olympia in Greece, taken in April 2007.
An old drawing showing ancient ruins from Olympia, a famous archaeological site in Greece.
Ancient Roman baths at Olympia, Greece, showing well-preserved stone architecture and historical ruins.
Architectural model of the ancient sanctuary of Olympia in Greece, on display at a museum.

This article is a child-friendly adaptation of the Wikipedia article on Olympia, Greece, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Images from Wikimedia Commons. Tap any image to view credits and license.