Monday, 6 January 2014

Olympia, Greece

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.
A beautiful December morning

At Olympia, exploring

The walkway to the Stadium


An extra piece to the Olympia puzzle. 
Olive tree


Unicorned by Zeus!

I guess it always blooms in Greece

The pediments (decor on the outside of the building) from the temple of Zeus.


Statue of a Bull



Armour with the following carved into it.




Our ad for the boat.

How I spent the rest of my day!

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