The ancient site of Olympia is the birth place of the Olympic Games. This sanctuary flourished from 10th century BC to AD 426. Games were held every 4 years to honour Zeus. Participants in the games had to be true-born, free Greek men. Women were not allowed to watch the games. Victors were crowned with a branch of the "beautiful crowned olive tree" that stood near the Temple of Zeus. It was a great honour to win the crown.
On this site, the ruins of the original Olympic buildings can be found. There was a gymnasium, stadium, baths, and many building dedicated to various Gods, including Zeus and Hera. The ruins were spectacular. The landscape was everything I ever envisioned Greece would be.
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A beautiful December morning |
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At Olympia, exploring |
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The walkway to the Stadium |
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An extra piece to the Olympia puzzle. |
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Olive tree |
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Unicorned by Zeus! |
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I guess it always blooms in Greece |
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The pediments (decor on the outside of the building) from the temple of Zeus. |
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Statue of a Bull |
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Armour with the following carved into it. |
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Our ad for the boat. |
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How I spent the rest of my day! |
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