Take a journey to the archaeological ancient site of Olympia.  In the Peloponnese peninsula, in the beautiful valley of the Alpheus River, you will find the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece.  Its fame rests upon the Olympic Games, which was held every four years to honor Zeus.

We begin our full day tour from Athens in the morning.   As we drive through the Corinth Canal, a wonder of modern engineering, we will make a short stop here to take in this modern marvel.   We continue towards the south west of Peloponnese and in 4 hours time we arrive in Olympia, the birthplace of the most important athletic event of all times: the Olympic Games founded in the 8^th century AD.

Olympia gathers a variety of archaeological treasures, statues, altars and temples.  Among its extensive ruins, included are the Gymnasium and athletic training areas used by the athletes, and the stadium with a capacity of 45,000 spectators.   The most celebrated temple was the Temple of Zeus, dedicated to the father of the Gods.  In this temple was a statue of Zeus made of ivory and gold, the masterpiece of the Athenian sculptor Phidias.   Next is the Temple of Hera, the wife of Zeus.  Also see the statues of Nike and Hermes of Praxiteles, as well as the altar where the Olympic Torch is ignited for the Modern Olympic Games.

After exploring the monuments and temples, it is the Archaeological Museum that will attract your attention.  You will find exhibitions of some of the most important excavation findings from the Prehistoric times to the Early Christian Period, such as the Sculpture and Bronze collections.  You will also have the opportunity to buy souvenirs, gifts and books related to the Olympic Games.

Complete your tour with a meal at a local traditional tavern of Olympia before we begin our return trip back to Athens.