Stop 1 - Introduction
Welcome to the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity! My name is Paul and I am going to be your guide for this tour. I’m an expert on Greek history and a licensed tour guide for over 25 years. By the end of this “journey”, I will truly have captured the whole history, myths and legends of ancient Greece.I am delighted to have you here today. Together we will delve into the impressive exhibits of this small but important museum.The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and cultural significance of the ancient Olympic Games, held right here in Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of this legendary athletic tradition.HOW TO USE THIS APPBefore we start our tour, it’s useful to understand how to use this app. As you can see from the display window on your audio player, each of the stops on this tour has its own title. You can skip ahead or tailor your itinerary according to your own taste. However, navigating on your own can be confusing, and it’s easier to just follow the tour in the order I’ve laid out as I will give you directions from one stop to the next. You can pause the audio guide, then restart it when you are ready to see the next point of interest.
Stop 2 - The Entrance Hall
As we are standing at the entrance of the museum, let me share with you some generic but really important information about the museum that we are going to explore.The Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity is one of the most important archaeological museums in Greece. It hosts in its collection artefacts from the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus in Olympia where the ancient Olympic Games were born and hosted.The first museum in Olympia was founded in 1886 on a small hill west of the Altis and was subsidized by the benefactor Andreas Syngros. In 1954 it underwent serious damage by an earthquake and was subsequently closed. It reopened as the Olympic Games History Museum in 2004.The museum presents the long history of the Olympic Games and hosts findings related to the period when the ancient games took place such as a collection of terracottas, a collection of bronzes, a collection of sculptures and most of all a great collection from the ancient Olympic Games. It also shows a considerable number of findings from other Greek museums which are directly related to sporting events and athletic activity in antiquity. There are also on display objects that athletes used in everyday training as well as pottery and other artifacts which gave us valuable information on the training of the athletes as well as the regulations of individual events and Games.Let’s go deeper!
Stop 3 - The Statue of Zeus
Few to none will disagree with me that this statue, the statue of Zeus in front of you, is the most impressive and significant exhibit in this museum. The Statue of Zeus pays homage to the original Statue of Zeus in Olympia, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.The replica in the museum is crafted to reflect the grandeur of the original, though on a smaller scale. It is based on historical descriptions, ancient coins, and depictions found on pottery and other artifacts. These sources have provided enough information to give visitors an idea of the original statue's appearance and magnificence. The original statue was made of ivory and gold-plated bronze, standing about 12 meters (39 feet) tall. It was created by the renowned Greek sculptor Phidias around 435 BC. Phidias was also the creator of the statue of Athena Parthenos in the Parthenon.The statue depicts Zeus seated on a magnificent throne, holding a statue of Nike, the goddess of victory, in his right hand and a scepter topped with an eagle in his left hand. The throne itself was intricately decorated with gold, ebony, ivory, and precious stones.The statue was not just a religious symbol but also a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Greece. It exemplified the Greeks' reverence for their gods and their dedication to creating art that expressed their religious devotion and aesthetic ideals.Zeus was considered the ruler of Mount Olympus and the god of the sky, lightning, and thunder. His dominion over all other gods and humans made him the central figure in Greek mythology. The ancient Olympic Games were held in honor of Zeus. The games were both a religious festival and an athletic competition, reflecting the Greeks' belief in the close relationship between physical prowess and divine favor.
Stop 4 - The architectural model of the Temple of Zeus
Our next stop is in front of the architectural model of the Temple of Zeus.The Temple of Zeus in Olympia is one of the most significant structures in ancient Greek history, and the architectural model displayed here offers us a detailed and insightful look into this iconic temple.The Temple of Zeus was built between 472 and 456 BC by the architect Libon of Elis. It was constructed to honor Zeus, the king of the gods, and served as the religious center of the ancient Olympic Games. The temple is a prime example of Doric architecture, characterized by its sturdy columns, simple capitals, and a sense of proportion and harmony.The architectural model is a meticulously crafted scale representation of the Temple of Zeus, showcasing its grandeur and architectural sophistication. The model is typically constructed from durable materials such as resin or wood, accurately depicting the stone and marble construction of the original temple and includes intricate details such as the Doric columns, the elaborate pediments, the cella (inner chamber), and the statue of Zeus that once stood inside.You can see six columns on the short sides and thirteen columns on the long sides which is typical of Doric temples. The columns are fluted and have simple, unadorned capitals. The east and west pediments of the temple were adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting mythological scenes. The east pediment showed the chariot race between Pelops and Oenomaus, while the west depicted the battle between the Lapiths and the Centaurs. The model also includes the inner chamber (cella), where the colossal statue of Zeus once stood. This statue, made of ivory and gold, was the focal point of the temple.In a few words, my friends, the architectural model of the Temple of Zeus provides a fascinating glimpse into one of ancient Greece's most important religious and cultural monuments. Through this detailed representation, visitors just like us can appreciate the architectural brilliance and historical significance of the temple that once stood at the heart of Olympia.
Stop 5 - A Collection of oil flasks
A few steps away, we will see a display with small objects that consist of a collection of oil flasks used by athletes. In the ancient Greece, these flasks were called “aryballoi”.These small, often intricately decorated oil flasks are a key part of understanding the daily practices and cultural significance of athletics in ancient Greek society.Aryballoi are typically small, round or globular vessels with a narrow neck and a wide mouth. They often feature a single handle or a small loop for easy handling. Most of them are made of ceramic, but some examples are found in bronze or glass. Ceramic aryballoi are usually the most elaborately decorated. The surfaces of these vessels often feature detailed paintings or carvings. Common decorative themes include geometric patterns, mythological scenes, athletic competitions, and everyday life activities.Athletes used oil to anoint their bodies before competitions or exercises. The oil, typically olive oil, was believed to protect the skin, reduce friction, and enhance the athlete's appearance. After their activities, athletes would scrape off the oil, along with sweat and dirt, using a tool called a strigil. The use of oil and aryballoi was not limited to professional athletes; it was also a part of daily grooming and ritual practices. Oil application was an essential part of the training regimen in gymnasiums and palestras (wrestling schools). Finely crafted and decorated aryballoi were often owned by wealthier individuals and could be used as status symbols. They were sometimes given as gifts or prizes and were also placed in graves as offerings to the deceased.
Stop 6 - Votive offerings & ritual objects
The sanctuary of Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games, was not only a place for athletic competitions but also a significant religious center dedicated to Zeus. The Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity, where we are right now, houses a remarkable collection of votive offerings and ritual objects discovered in Olympia. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the religious practices and beliefs of the ancient Greeks.Votive offerings were gifts presented to the gods in fulfilment of a vow or as an expression of gratitude or devotion. In Olympia, these offerings were often dedicated to Zeus, Hera, and other deities. Such offerings are the Terracotta Figurines, small clay figurines representing humans, animals, and mythological creatures. These figurines were common offerings made by worshippers seeking favor or expressing thanks to the gods. They often depicted scenes from everyday life, religious rituals, or mythological events. We can also see bronze tripods with three-legged stands, often intricately decorated. Tripods were prestigious offerings, frequently dedicated by victors of athletic competitions as a symbol of their victory and gratitude to the gods. They were also used in religious ceremonies. Of course, weapons and armor couldn’t be missing. Shields, helmets, swords, and other pieces of weaponry were typically dedicated by warriors seeking protection in battle or giving thanks for victory. They symbolized strength, valor, and divine favor. In this display, we can identify some jewelry and precious Items such as rings, bracelets, and necklaces made of gold, silver, and other precious materials. These valuable offerings were made by wealthy individuals seeking to gain the favor of the gods or to fulfill vows. They demonstrate the economic and social status of the dedicants.Apart from the votive offerings, very famous were the ritual objects that were used in religious ceremonies and festivals at Olympia and played a crucial role in the worship practices of the ancient Greeks. Shallow bowls were used for pouring libations, often made of bronze or precious metals. These libations were a common form of offering, involving the pouring of liquids such as wine, oil, or water to honor the gods. They were essential for conducting such rituals. In addition, there were sacrificial knives. Yes, you hear very well. These knives, made of bronze or iron, often with ornate handles, were used in animal sacrifices, a central component of Greek religious rituals. The sacrificial act was believed to ensure divine favor and communication with the gods. Other ritual objects were the Ceremonial Vases (Krateres and Hydriai). They were large vases used for mixing wine and water (krateres) or storing water (hydriai). These vessels were used in various religious ceremonies, including feasts and libations, and often featured elaborate decorations depicting mythological and religious scenes. Last but not least, many relief sculptures and statuettes were found at Olympia. They are small statues and relief carvings representing gods, heroes, and mythological figures that were used in both public and private worship, serving as focal points for devotion and ritual activities.
Stop 7 - An ancient olive wreath
Walking on the opposite side, you will notice an ancient olive wreath. The olive wreath, known as "kotinos," was crafted from the branches and leaves of the wild olive tree. The wreath is circular, made by intertwining olive branches. The leaves are typically elongated and pointed, with a silvery-green hue. The olive wreath was a symbol of victory, peace, and honor. It was awarded to winners of the ancient Olympic Games, representing the highest accolade an athlete could achieve.The tradition of awarding olive wreaths dates to the ancient Olympic Games, held in Olympia. According to legend, the practice was instituted by Heracles (Hercules) or the mythical King Iphitos of Elis. The olive wreath was not only a prize but also a religious offering. The olive tree was sacred to Zeus, and the branches used for the wreaths were taken from a sacred grove in Olympia. Victors wore the wreaths during the victory celebrations and processions, signifying their divine favor and athletic prowess. The awarding of the wreath was a moment of immense pride and honor.
Stop 8 - A replica of a victory amphora
Right next to the ancient olive wreath, a replica of a victory amphora is displayed. The victory amphora, or Panathenaic amphora, is a large ceramic vase with a distinctive shape featuring a wide body, narrow neck, and two handles. It is typically decorated with black-figure or red-figure techniques. One side of the amphora usually depicts the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens, in a martial pose. The other side often shows the event in which the victor triumphed, such as running, wrestling, or chariot racing.Victory amphorae were awarded as prizes in the Panathenaic Games, held in Athens every four years. These games were part of a festival honoring Athena. The amphorae were filled with olive oil, a valuable commodity in ancient Greece. The oil came from sacred olive trees on the Acropolis, further enhancing the amphora's prestige. These amphorae symbolized not only athletic excellence but also civic pride and religious devotion. They were treasured by victors and often displayed prominently in their homes.
Stop 9 - The End
Our tour comes to an end. Hope you enjoyed your visit and leave with a deeper appreciation for the history and impact of the ancient Olympic Games. If you have more time, you can walk through the museum and encounter a variety of exhibits that include original artefacts, detailed replicas, informative panels, and interactive displays. Each section is designed to immerse you in the ancient world, providing a comprehensive understanding of the Olympic Games' significance in antiquity and their enduring legacy.If you are up for even more sightseeing, visit our website at www.keytours.gr, choose from plenty of guided tours covering great sites of Greek history, and with the promo code KEYAUDIO, save 10% off your booking. Goodbye!
