Chalandriani

Chalandriani is located 9.5 kilometers away from Ermoupolis, on the northeast side of the island and it is one of the most important archaeological sites within the Cyclades as a prehistoric acropolis dating back to the 3rd millennium BC has been discovered in the area after excavations conducted by Christos Tsountas in the late 19th century.

Source: www.syrosisland.gr

Posts about Syros

Kastri

  • Sep 2,2016

At a distance of about 45 minutes from Chalandriani a prehistoric settlement from the later years of the Early Cycladic period II has been discovered covering an area of 3.5 to 5 acres. In this area the excavations brought to light a graveyard with about 600 tombs as well as ruins of inestimable value that indicate that ceramic, stone and metalwork has been developed in the area. Various vases,... read more

The Aquarium in Kini

  • Sep 1,2016

The aquarium in Kini is one of the most popular attractions for both children and adults as it enables visitors to experience the magical marine world of the Aegean Sea and study in depth the marine flora and fauna. The Aquarium boasts an educational character as it invites guests to learn everything there is to know about the sea as well as the sea activities and equipment used in such cases so as to awaken... read more

Pherecydes Cave

  • Sep 2,2016

On the road to Ano Syros and shortly after the rural settlement of Kyperoussa one can find the cave of Pherecydes. To reach the cave he must follow a small dirt road that slowly begins to go downhill leading visitors to a magnificent land nuzzled between the earth, the sky and the blue horizon. That’s where the cave where the theogonist poet and philosopher Pherecydes used to reside during the cold... read more

Chalandriani

  • Sep 1,2016

Chalandriani is located 9.5 kilometers away from Ermoupolis, on the northeast side of the island and it is one of the most important archaeological sites within the Cyclades as a prehistoric acropolis dating back to the 3rd millennium BC has been discovered in the area after excavations conducted by Christos Tsountas in the late 19th century. Source: www.syrosisland.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more

Historic Theater Apollon

  • Sep 1,2016

The historic Theater Apollon is one of the major attractions of Syros and constitutes an emblem of the island’s cultural heritage. Created in 1864 by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo who was inspired by 4 stunning Italian standards including the Scala di Milano, the theater Apollon adorns the heart of the capital to this day. The Apollo Theater first opened its doors with an Italian theater troupe... read more

Agathopes Beach

  • Sep 1,2016

Agathopes beach is one of the most popular beaches of Syros, just 14 km from Hermoupolis. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and shallow waters, offering all the comforts as well as easy access by bus making it a perfect choice for a memorable day on the beach. Guests can swim in the clear blue waters and enjoy a coffee or meal in the cafeterias and taverns along the beach. Just 1 km from... read more

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Grammata

gramm_syros2At this point, sailors used to moor their vessels when the weather did not allow them to continue their journey. During such moments they prayed to the gods either to thank them for being rescued from the bad weather, or to plead to them to safely continue their travels. They used to smoothly carve their prayers on the cliffs of the coast while waiting for the right weather conditions that would allow them to take off once again. For this reason the cove was named “Grammata” meaning letters.

According to archaeologists the inscriptions date back all the way from the classical antiquity and up to the middle ages.

Source: www.syrosisland.gr

Posts for Syros

Kastri

  • Sep 2,2016

At a distance of about 45 minutes from Chalandriani a prehistoric settlement from the later years of the Early Cycladic period II has been discovered covering an area of 3.5 to 5 acres. In this area the excavations brought to light a graveyard with about 600 tombs as well as ruins of inestimable value that indicate that ceramic, stone and metalwork has been developed in the area. Various vases,... read more

The Aquarium in Kini

  • Sep 1,2016

The aquarium in Kini is one of the most popular attractions for both children and adults as it enables visitors to experience the magical marine world of the Aegean Sea and study in depth the marine flora and fauna. The Aquarium boasts an educational character as it invites guests to learn everything there is to know about the sea as well as the sea activities and equipment used in such cases so as to awaken... read more

Pherecydes Cave

  • Sep 2,2016

On the road to Ano Syros and shortly after the rural settlement of Kyperoussa one can find the cave of Pherecydes. To reach the cave he must follow a small dirt road that slowly begins to go downhill leading visitors to a magnificent land nuzzled between the earth, the sky and the blue horizon. That’s where the cave where the theogonist poet and philosopher Pherecydes used to reside during the cold... read more

Chalandriani

  • Sep 1,2016

Chalandriani is located 9.5 kilometers away from Ermoupolis, on the northeast side of the island and it is one of the most important archaeological sites within the Cyclades as a prehistoric acropolis dating back to the 3rd millennium BC has been discovered in the area after excavations conducted by Christos Tsountas in the late 19th century. Source: www.syrosisland.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more

Historic Theater Apollon

  • Sep 1,2016

The historic Theater Apollon is one of the major attractions of Syros and constitutes an emblem of the island’s cultural heritage. Created in 1864 by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo who was inspired by 4 stunning Italian standards including the Scala di Milano, the theater Apollon adorns the heart of the capital to this day. The Apollo Theater first opened its doors with an Italian theater troupe... read more

Agathopes Beach

  • Sep 1,2016

Agathopes beach is one of the most popular beaches of Syros, just 14 km from Hermoupolis. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and shallow waters, offering all the comforts as well as easy access by bus making it a perfect choice for a memorable day on the beach. Guests can swim in the clear blue waters and enjoy a coffee or meal in the cafeterias and taverns along the beach. Just 1 km from... read more

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Ancient Gallisos

The ancient city of Galissos is an important archaeological site located near the homonymous beach. On the hill of Agia Pakous a prehistoric fortified settlement has been discovered from which some remains of buildings, a tower of the 4th century, a cemetery and a sanctuary survive to the day. Based on the excavations it seems that this ancient settlement was first inhabited in the 8th-7th century BC and today it has become one of the most favorite tourist destinations.

Source: www.syrosisland.gr

Posts for Syros

Kastri

  • Sep 2,2016

At a distance of about 45 minutes from Chalandriani a prehistoric settlement from the later years of the Early Cycladic period II has been discovered covering an area of 3.5 to 5 acres. In this area the excavations brought to light a graveyard with about 600 tombs as well as ruins of inestimable value that indicate that ceramic, stone and metalwork has been developed in the area. Various vases,... read more

The Aquarium in Kini

  • Sep 1,2016

The aquarium in Kini is one of the most popular attractions for both children and adults as it enables visitors to experience the magical marine world of the Aegean Sea and study in depth the marine flora and fauna. The Aquarium boasts an educational character as it invites guests to learn everything there is to know about the sea as well as the sea activities and equipment used in such cases so as to awaken... read more

Pherecydes Cave

  • Sep 2,2016

On the road to Ano Syros and shortly after the rural settlement of Kyperoussa one can find the cave of Pherecydes. To reach the cave he must follow a small dirt road that slowly begins to go downhill leading visitors to a magnificent land nuzzled between the earth, the sky and the blue horizon. That’s where the cave where the theogonist poet and philosopher Pherecydes used to reside during the cold... read more

Chalandriani

  • Sep 1,2016

Chalandriani is located 9.5 kilometers away from Ermoupolis, on the northeast side of the island and it is one of the most important archaeological sites within the Cyclades as a prehistoric acropolis dating back to the 3rd millennium BC has been discovered in the area after excavations conducted by Christos Tsountas in the late 19th century. Source: www.syrosisland.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more

Historic Theater Apollon

  • Sep 1,2016

The historic Theater Apollon is one of the major attractions of Syros and constitutes an emblem of the island’s cultural heritage. Created in 1864 by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo who was inspired by 4 stunning Italian standards including the Scala di Milano, the theater Apollon adorns the heart of the capital to this day. The Apollo Theater first opened its doors with an Italian theater troupe... read more

Agathopes Beach

  • Sep 1,2016

Agathopes beach is one of the most popular beaches of Syros, just 14 km from Hermoupolis. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and shallow waters, offering all the comforts as well as easy access by bus making it a perfect choice for a memorable day on the beach. Guests can swim in the clear blue waters and enjoy a coffee or meal in the cafeterias and taverns along the beach. Just 1 km from... read more

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Panathenaic Stadium

panathinaiko1The impressive Panathenaic Stadium is also known as the Kallimarmaro (“the one made with beautiful marble”). Founded in the 4th century under the rule of Lycourgos, on the slopes of Ardittos hill, it was restored and expanded by Hadrian Atticus. Following the city’s decline during the Christian era, and the Franc and Ottoman occupations, the stadium gradually fell into disrepair, eventually being buried under tons of dirt.

panathinaiko3But the site was excavated and the ancient stadium was fully restored in time to host the first Modern Olympic Games in 1896. Since that time, the stadium has been connected to all major sports events in Greece. As a tribute to the original Marathon run, the Marathon International road race, held annually to commemorate Spyros Louis’ marathon victory at the first modern Olympic Games, ends here. The stadium was also the finishing point of the Athens, 2004 Olympic Games Marathon.
Stadium site: www.panathenaicstadium.gr

Source: www.athensattica.gr

Posts for Attica

Equitrek Attica

  • Jun 17,2020

We are a Greek equine tourism and recreation business based just one hour outside the city of Athens in Atticas historical area of Marathonas. We offer a vary of equine activities and experiential workshops also horseback holidays, combined outdoor activities and tour packages. Our horses are part of the family and their heart and spirit the core of all our activities. We are passionate about our work... read more

“Dora Stratou” Performance Information...

  • Feb 26,2020

PERFORMANCE  INFORMATION  2020 "Dora Stratou" Greek Dances Theatre, Philopappou Hill Garden Theatre - The living museum of Greek dance www.grdance.org   OPENING NIGHT  27 May 2020     CLOSING NIGHT  20 September 2020 PERFORMANCES Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 21:30. Saturday and Sunday 20:30. Monday, Tuesday (27, 28 June, 1-5 July and 12-23 August) closed or organizes additional... read more

DARKSCHOOL ESCAPE ROOMS

  • Jun 26,2019

A well-kept secret lies inside the secret facilities at the heart of Silk City. The people are starting to ask questions. Something’s not right about this building. For years, all they would see were strange, secretive human figures, meeting with the scientist who had made this building his permanent residence, only rarely leaving the premises. The object of those meetings was kept entirely secret,... read more

The Museum of Illusions in Athens

  • May 31,2019

If a picture is worth a thousand words, be sure that an illusion hides more than a million Enter the fascinating world of illusions which will trick your confidence in senses, but amaze you by doing it; the world that will confuse you completely, but also educate you… Visit us and you will be thrilled because nothing is what it seems, especially not HERE! Are you ready for an even bigger, better,... read more

Liar Wanted by Dimitris Psathas

  • Mar 20,2019

Liar Wanted by Dimitris Psathas  brought to you by THEATRIKES SKINES and Petros Zoulias  from 15 MARCH AT THE PALLAS THEATRE SURTITLES IN PALLAS THEATER THEATRIKES SKINES SA offer the opportunity to all foreign visitors and residents of Athens as well as theater-lovers with hearing difficulties to watch the performances at PALLAS Theater. In Athens, a city rightly described as the theatrical... read more

Ancient Symposium, A theme site full of knowledge...

  • Jan 24,2019

“SYMPOSIUM” was established by Georgios and Emmanouel Roussis. We are a family of artists, a father and his son, who have had a passion for sculpture and, lately, for ancient Greek wine-making. Both Georgios and Emmanouel Roussis studied at the School of Fine Arts in Athens and Florina respectively, at the Department of Sculpture, with a scholarship. They are ordinary members of the Greek Chamber... read more

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Ancient Theater of Aigeira

aigeiraThe ancient theater is situated near the town of Aigeira at an altitude of 350m above sea level offering a view to the Corinthian gulf. Its construction dates back to 280-250 Β.C. Similar to the orchestra, the koilo is hewn on natural rock and when not available the soil was cut to accommodate stone seats. During the Hellenistic period it consisted of a two storey building. A corridor divides the koilo into two parts with a total capacity of 3000 spectators, its total length reaching 30,70 m.

Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr

Posts for Achaia

Rack Railway

  • Jan 21,2016

In 1889, Charilaos Trikoupis, Greece’s Prime Minister at the time, decided to construct the rack railway. Specialized technicians from France and Italy undertook the construction of the track and it lasted seven years. King George I was the first train passenger that took the first journey on March 10th, 1896. The purpose of the railway was to connect the region of Kalavryta to Athens and Patras... read more

Vouraikos Gorge

  • Jan 21,2016

Vouraikos gorge starts at a distance of 3 km from the west foothills of mount Helmos and mount Panachaiko, and leads all the way to Diakopto. Vouraikos River springs from the mountains of Kalavryta and ends at the Corinthian gulf, near the beach of Diakopto. Along its way it has created a deep, unique gorge. As it runs down to the sea, it receives the waters of several streams forming small lakes... read more

Kalavryta Ski Resort

  • Jan 21,2016

Kalavryta Ski resort is situated 14km from the town, at an altitude of 1670 to 2328 meters above sea level, on the southern side of mount Helmos. It has 8 lifts, 2 aerial (1 three-seat and 1 two-seat), 3 drag lifts (one of them double), 2 lifts for children and a recreation one. The biggest lift is 1415m long and has a height difference of 472m. The total lift capacity is 5.000 people per hour. The... read more

Lake Tsivlou

  • Jan 21,2016

One of the few lakes in the mountainous region of the Peloponnese, lake Tsivlou is situated at an altitude of 800 m. It was formed following a landslide in 1912 when the ancient river Krathis was blocked. The small yet picturesque lake is located half way from Akrata to Zarouchla. Enjoy a picnic with view the huge branches sprouting out of its surface or chose between walking, mountain biking and off-road... read more

Ancient Theater of Aigeira

  • Jan 21,2016

The ancient theater is situated near the town of Aigeira at an altitude of 350m above sea level offering a view to the Corinthian gulf. Its construction dates back to 280-250 Β.C. Similar to the orchestra, the koilo is hewn on natural rock and when not available the soil was cut to accommodate stone seats. During the Hellenistic period it consisted of a two storey building. A corridor divides the koilo... read more

The Carnival of Patra

  • Jan 21,2016

Patra, the capital of the prefecture of Achaea, is without doubt a city with great history and many interesting places for one to discover during a visit. However to the majority of the people the city is best known for its Carnival, which, is, admittedly, the biggest and most impressive carnival out of the dozens that are organized in various areas in Greece. The Carnival of Patra began in the 19th... read more

Page: 1
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Odeum of Patras

Erected before the Odeum of Herodes Atticus in Athens, the Roman Odeum of Patras was built in 160 BC. According to Pausanias, it has the most beautiful decoration after that the Odeum of Athens. On site was the statue of Apollo, which was built from the spoils of war between the Aitolians and the Gauls. In 279 B.C., the inhabitants of Patras created an alliance with the Aitolians to win the war.

Completely covered with earth until then, the Odeum was revealed in 1889. The monument was repaired and dressed again with marble slabs after World War II.

The cavea has four rows of seats in the lower section, and seven in the upper part, over the diazoma. The outer, tall wall of the stage (skene) has five entrances to the skene and the lateral buildings (paraskenia). The orchestra is paved and separated from the cavea by a semicircular parapet.

Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr

Posts for Achaia

Rack Railway

  • Jan 21,2016

In 1889, Charilaos Trikoupis, Greece’s Prime Minister at the time, decided to construct the rack railway. Specialized technicians from France and Italy undertook the construction of the track and it lasted seven years. King George I was the first train passenger that took the first journey on March 10th, 1896. The purpose of the railway was to connect the region of Kalavryta to Athens and Patras... read more

Vouraikos Gorge

  • Jan 21,2016

Vouraikos gorge starts at a distance of 3 km from the west foothills of mount Helmos and mount Panachaiko, and leads all the way to Diakopto. Vouraikos River springs from the mountains of Kalavryta and ends at the Corinthian gulf, near the beach of Diakopto. Along its way it has created a deep, unique gorge. As it runs down to the sea, it receives the waters of several streams forming small lakes... read more

Kalavryta Ski Resort

  • Jan 21,2016

Kalavryta Ski resort is situated 14km from the town, at an altitude of 1670 to 2328 meters above sea level, on the southern side of mount Helmos. It has 8 lifts, 2 aerial (1 three-seat and 1 two-seat), 3 drag lifts (one of them double), 2 lifts for children and a recreation one. The biggest lift is 1415m long and has a height difference of 472m. The total lift capacity is 5.000 people per hour. The... read more

Lake Tsivlou

  • Jan 21,2016

One of the few lakes in the mountainous region of the Peloponnese, lake Tsivlou is situated at an altitude of 800 m. It was formed following a landslide in 1912 when the ancient river Krathis was blocked. The small yet picturesque lake is located half way from Akrata to Zarouchla. Enjoy a picnic with view the huge branches sprouting out of its surface or chose between walking, mountain biking and off-road... read more

Ancient Theater of Aigeira

  • Jan 21,2016

The ancient theater is situated near the town of Aigeira at an altitude of 350m above sea level offering a view to the Corinthian gulf. Its construction dates back to 280-250 Β.C. Similar to the orchestra, the koilo is hewn on natural rock and when not available the soil was cut to accommodate stone seats. During the Hellenistic period it consisted of a two storey building. A corridor divides the koilo... read more

The Carnival of Patra

  • Jan 21,2016

Patra, the capital of the prefecture of Achaea, is without doubt a city with great history and many interesting places for one to discover during a visit. However to the majority of the people the city is best known for its Carnival, which, is, admittedly, the biggest and most impressive carnival out of the dozens that are organized in various areas in Greece. The Carnival of Patra began in the 19th... read more

Page: 1
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Ancient Ilida

Ilida or Ilis was a city-state in ancient Ilia, very near ancient Olympia, and took up the area which today extends from the village of Paliopoli (or Nea Ilida) to the southeast, Bouchioti (or Avgeio) to the southwest and Kalyvia to the west. According to myth, it was founded by Oxylus, son of Aemon and Gorgi, who is also mentioned in some traditions as the founder of the Olympic Games. Oxylus, who hailed from Aetolia, founded Ilida by merging all pre-existing towns in the area, and became its first king.

Ilida placed a lot of emphasis on the organization of the Olympic Games, which took place every four years. Before and during the games the whole area came alive; a month before the games began, all athletes were to come to Ilida to train. Many came with their friends and family, from various parts of the country.

The city of Ilida had many temples and sanctuaries, such as the temple of the Charites, the temple of Seilinos, the temple of Hades, the sanctuary of Tyche, the sanctuary of Dionysus, the shrine of Achilles and many others. The city saw great prosperity, until about the 4th century, when the first signs of decline slowly appeared. The final end came some centuries later, with the destructive earthquake of the 6th century A.D.

Ilida was one of the most important Greek cities in antiquity. It was inhabited in prehistoric times and during the Mycenaean period it became an independent kingdom, which prospered greatly in the 6th century B.C. and also had its own coins, which were distinguished for their artistic merit. During its great prime, Ilida comprised four districts: Pisatis, Trifylia, Akroreia and Koile-Ilis, the fertile valley over which the kingdom extended. The locals became stock-breeders and farmers, taking advantage of the valley’s rich soil and the area’s mild climate. They also occupied themselves with the Olympic Games, contributing greatly to their organization.In the society of Ilida the women played an important role, having assumed the management of public affairs, as well as the organization of the Heraia, panhellenic women’s games in honour of Hera. The games took place every four years.

The buildings
The city had many buildings; according to Pausanias, who visited it during his travels, it had an arena, gymnasium, many temples, sanctuaries, shrines and arcades, all adorned with beautiful art works. The sanctuary of Tyche, the sanctuary of Dionysus with the god’s statue, made by Praxiteles, the sanctuary of the Charites with their wooden statues, the sanctuary of Apollo Akesios, who was worshipped as a healer, with his statue, the temple of Seilinos, the temple of Athena with her ivory and gold statue, which depicted her as Ergani, wearing a helmet with a rooster, the temple of Aphrodite Ourania with her ivory and gold statue, made by Phidias, the temple of Sosipolis, whom the locals regarded as the personification of Zeus, also a temple of Hades, of Artemis Philomeirax, of the Roman emperors, as well as the shrines to Hades and Aphrodite Pandemos. Apart from the worship buildings, there was also a gymnasium, an arena, baths and a theatre. The theatre was built in the 4th century and did not have seat rows; the spectators sat on the incline of the koilon. During Hellenistic and Roman times it went through many alterations. Some time later it was abandoned and its expanse was used as a cemetery.

The decline
The great prosperity of Ilida slowly started to fade in the 4th century B.C. In 146 B.C. the city was conquered by the Romans. During that time it became a proper Roman province, sprawling with villas and baths, many of which were built above the older, classic buildings. The final end came when the emperor Theodosios A’ banned the Olympic Games in 393 B.C., something which proved detrimental to the city, as the games were a great source of its prosperity. The destructive earthquake of the 6th century A.D. extinguished any hopes of recovery.

The excavations
The city was first located by travellers in the 19th century, since its ruins were still visible. The first organized excavations took place between 1911 and 1914 by the Austrian Archaeological Institute, led by the archaeologist Otto Walter. Today the Archaeological Society resumes the excavations from time to time, and also some rescue excavations are carried out by the 7th Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities. So far, more that 120 settlements have come to light, and more than 200 sites have been located.

Fairly recently, at Lakkathela, in the region of Daphne, a Mycenaean cemetery came to light, where 12 rich tholos tombs were excavated, which showed to be intact and contained rich burial offerings. The area was proclaimed an archaeological site and it may be that it has more to reveal in the future.

Everything the excavations brought to light has been assembled since 1981 in one collection, the Archaeological Collection of Ilida, which includes findings ranging from the Early-Helladic to the Roman period, including jars, figurines, statues, weapons, tomb stelae and many more. Of great importance is the mosaic floor of a 3d century A.D. mansion, with depictions of the nine Muses and the labours of Hercules.

Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr

Posts for Elis

Kaiafas

  • Jan 21,2016

To the west of the prefecture of Ilia, 27 km from its capital, Pyrgos, lies the area known as Kaiafas, comprising a vast beach on the side of the Ionian sea, a coastal pine forest and the homonymous lake, which is the centre of health tourism in the area. The healing properties of the Kaiafa lake waters have been known since antiquity; according to the ancient Greeks, they owed their properties to the nymphs... read more

Ancient Ilida

  • Jan 21,2016

Ilida or Ilis was a city-state in ancient Ilia, very near ancient Olympia, and took up the area which today extends from the village of Paliopoli (or Nea Ilida) to the southeast, Bouchioti (or Avgeio) to the southwest and Kalyvia to the west. According to myth, it was founded by Oxylus, son of Aemon and Gorgi, who is also mentioned in some traditions as the founder of the Olympic Games. Oxylus, who hailed... read more

Foloi oak forest

  • Jan 21,2016

Foloi oak forest is a designated site under NATURA 2000 that dates back to ancient times. It’s the only flat forest in Greece situated on the boundaries between Elis, Arcadia and Achaia, at an altitude of 600meters. It covers a total surface of 218.000 acres and it consists mainly of broadleaf oaks. Foloi oak forest is a designated site under NATURA 2000 that dates back to ancient times. It’s... read more

Pineios River and Pineios artificial lake

  • Jan 21,2016

Pineios is one of the Peloponnese’s most significant rivers, its total length is 70 km. Also known as Gastouni River, it has its sources in the mount Erymanthos and empties in the Ionian Sea near town bearing the same name. According to mythology, Hercules diverted the flow of Pineios and Alfeios rivers in order to clean the Augean Stables in his fifth labor. After having demolished the stables’... read more

Alfeios

  • Jan 21,2016

Peloponnese’s longest river (111km long) has its source in Arcadia and its mouth in the Prefecture of Elis. According to mythology, Apheus was one of the river-gods of antiquity, worshiped mainly in the regions of Arcadia, Elis and Messinia. Son of Oceanus and Tethys, he killed his brother Cercaphus and haunted by the Erinyes, he leapt into the river which was later named after him. Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more

Ancient Olympia

  • Jan 21,2016

During classical times Olympia was the city of Ilia best known as the area where the Olympic Games took place, the greatest athletic event of the then-Greek world. Today Ancient Olympia is a village and a municipality of Ilia, built in the valley of river Alpheus. Nearby lies the archaeological site, one of the most popular ones in Greece, which attracts every year tourists from all over the world.... read more

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Ancient Olympia

During classical times Olympia was the city of Ilia best known as the area where the Olympic Games took place, the greatest athletic event of the then-Greek world. Today Ancient Olympia is a village and a municipality of Ilia, built in the valley of river Alpheus. Nearby lies the archaeological site, one of the most popular ones in Greece, which attracts every year tourists from all over the world. The first excavations in the area began in 1829 and are still on-going, with important information constantly coming to light. The archaeological site’s most important buildings include the Gymnasium, the Palaistra, the Stadium, the temple of Zeus, the Bouleftirion, the Baths, Phidias’ workshop, the Leonidaion (guesthouse for the noblemen), the Sanctuary of Hestia and many more. There are indications that Olympia was inhabited in the 3d millenium B.C. It reached its great prime between the 8th and the 5th century B.C. A significant contributing factor to this was the official establishment of the Olympic Games in 776, something which brought thousands of visitors to the city every four years. This fact is attested by the vast number of votive offerings from almost all areas of Greece.


Video by fabdrone

Olympia was a sacred place in antiquity, dedicated to Zeus, where quatriannual games in the god’s honour took place, the renowned Olympic Games. The first games took place in 776 B.C.; according to tradition, Lycurgus of Sparta reached an agreement with Iphitus, the king of Ilida, regarding the establishment of worship events in Olympia in honour of the god. During these events it was agreed that there would be truce in the whole of Greece. The celebrations were held every four years until 393 A.D., when the emperor Theodosios A’ banned them, denouncing them as a pagan custom. The games revived much later, in 1896, when Baron Pierre de Coubertin took the initiative to bring them back to their birthland after many centuries, and have since been established as a worldwide event.

The excavations
The site was discovered in 1766, the excavations, however, began much later, in 1829, by the French Scientific Mission in the Peloponnese. The first big excavation began in 1875, led by the German archaeologist Ernst Curtius. By 1881 significant findings had come to light, such as the renowned Hermes by Praxiteles and Nike of Paionius. Between 1908 and 1929 new excavations took place, led by Wilhelm Dörpfeld. Those who worked at the excavations in Olympia between years 1952-1966 were: Emil Kunze, Hans Schleif and Alfred Mallwitz. Ever since then a lot of research has been done, many dates have been verified and a vast amount of information has come to light. Research is still under way today, since the archaeological site seems to have a lot more to reveal.

The archaeological site
At the centre of the archaeological site stands Altis, the holy grove, which encompasses the most important buildings. The area is dominated by the majestic temple of Zeus, one of the site’s most significant monuments, since it is the largest temple in the Peloponnese; it also hosted the splendid gold and ivory statue of Zeus, 13 m. tall, made by the sculptor Phidias sometime around 430 B.C. This statue was regarded as one of the seven wonders of the world. According to a votive inscription by the Lacedaimonians, the temple was built around 456 B.C. and is an excellent sample of the Doric order. To the north there is an older temple, dedicated to Hera. This temple must have been built around 600 B.C., dedicated to the sanctuary of Olympia by the people of Scillountas, an ancient town in Ilia. The temple held one of the sanctuary’s most significant and valuable works, Hermes by Praxiteles. Only part of the temple has been preserved today, while some fragments are kept at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. There is also the Mitroon, a temple dedicated to Rea-Cybele, the mother of gods, and behind it the treasures erected as offerings by the Greek cities and colonies. To the west stands Nymfaion, an aqueduct that Herodes Atticus dedicated to the sanctuary. There was also the Phlippeion, an offering by Philip II, the Prytaneion, the Pelopion, as well as many altars, busts and statues. Outside of the Altis there was also the Bouleftirion, the South Stoa, the Gymnasium, where the athletes trained, the Palaistra, Phidias’ workshop, the Baths, the Leonidaion, Nero’s mansion, and of course the Stadium, where the Olympic Games took place, with a capacity of 45,000 spectators.

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia
This Museum is one of the richest and most important museums in Greece, and it hosts the findings that the excavations at the ancient site of Olympia brought to light. It includes the largest collection of copper artifacts in the world, as well as collections of sculptures, ceramics and various artifacts connected to the Olympic Games. Among the most significant findings are the famous Hermes by Praxiteles, Nike by Paionius, the helmet of Miltiades and the complex of Zeus and Ganymede.

Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr

Posts for Elis

Kaiafas

  • Jan 21,2016

To the west of the prefecture of Ilia, 27 km from its capital, Pyrgos, lies the area known as Kaiafas, comprising a vast beach on the side of the Ionian sea, a coastal pine forest and the homonymous lake, which is the centre of health tourism in the area. The healing properties of the Kaiafa lake waters have been known since antiquity; according to the ancient Greeks, they owed their properties to the nymphs... read more

Ancient Ilida

  • Jan 21,2016

Ilida or Ilis was a city-state in ancient Ilia, very near ancient Olympia, and took up the area which today extends from the village of Paliopoli (or Nea Ilida) to the southeast, Bouchioti (or Avgeio) to the southwest and Kalyvia to the west. According to myth, it was founded by Oxylus, son of Aemon and Gorgi, who is also mentioned in some traditions as the founder of the Olympic Games. Oxylus, who hailed... read more

Foloi oak forest

  • Jan 21,2016

Foloi oak forest is a designated site under NATURA 2000 that dates back to ancient times. It’s the only flat forest in Greece situated on the boundaries between Elis, Arcadia and Achaia, at an altitude of 600meters. It covers a total surface of 218.000 acres and it consists mainly of broadleaf oaks. Foloi oak forest is a designated site under NATURA 2000 that dates back to ancient times. It’s... read more

Pineios River and Pineios artificial lake

  • Jan 21,2016

Pineios is one of the Peloponnese’s most significant rivers, its total length is 70 km. Also known as Gastouni River, it has its sources in the mount Erymanthos and empties in the Ionian Sea near town bearing the same name. According to mythology, Hercules diverted the flow of Pineios and Alfeios rivers in order to clean the Augean Stables in his fifth labor. After having demolished the stables’... read more

Alfeios

  • Jan 21,2016

Peloponnese’s longest river (111km long) has its source in Arcadia and its mouth in the Prefecture of Elis. According to mythology, Apheus was one of the river-gods of antiquity, worshiped mainly in the regions of Arcadia, Elis and Messinia. Son of Oceanus and Tethys, he killed his brother Cercaphus and haunted by the Erinyes, he leapt into the river which was later named after him. Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more

Ancient Olympia

  • Jan 21,2016

During classical times Olympia was the city of Ilia best known as the area where the Olympic Games took place, the greatest athletic event of the then-Greek world. Today Ancient Olympia is a village and a municipality of Ilia, built in the valley of river Alpheus. Nearby lies the archaeological site, one of the most popular ones in Greece, which attracts every year tourists from all over the world.... read more

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The Nemean Games (every 4 years)

The ancient Greeks celebrated festivals at Nemea that were part of the cycle of games at Delphi, Isthmia, and (best known today) Olympia. At each one of these four sites in rotation, for a brief period each year, wars and hostilities were suspended by a sacred truce, and all Greeks – Spartans and Athenians, Corinthians and Argives, Macedonians, and Cretans – gathered in recognition of their common humanity. The society for the Revival for the Nemean Games (which now has more than 1900 members from around the world) was founded in the belief that there is today scope and perhaps even the need for the average person – regardless of ethnicity, language, religion, gender, age, or athletic ability – to participate in an international athletic festival.

And so it happened in 1996 and 2000 and 2004 and 2008. More than 2500 people from 45 different countries, ranging in age from 6 to 96, have added their footprints to those of ages long gone. The games include running in the Stadium and a long distance run called “Footsteps of Herakles”. No records are kept, no medals are awarded. Families with picnics on the slopes of the stadium are as much a part of the festival as the runners. Races are organized by gender and age, and are interspersed with music and dances.

The Society for the Revival of the Nemean Games was founded on December 30, 1994, but the idea of a revival began much, much earlier. After continuous efforts there came the completion of the excavations and the publication of the stadium, and its landscaping. On July 6, 1994, Miller turned the stadium park over to the State in the persona of the then Minister of Culture, Thanos Mikroutsikos. It was wonderful to see the ancient stadium come back to life after so many centuries in front of 1500 spectators. The Nemean Games have 2 basic principles the Games should be as authentic, as true to historic precedent, as possible; and they should be for the participation of everyone to become an ancient Greek athlete if only for ten minutes.

In antiquity athletes assembled at the altar in front of the Temple of Zeus where they performed sacrifices and swore their oath. All the athletes assemble at the ancient locker room (apodyterion) where they will be assigned to their final grouping of twelve for each race – each group of similar age and the same gender.

nemea1aOnce inside the tent, the athlete will small clay jars (aryballoi) which contain olive oil as they did in antiquity — for the athletes to rub over their bodies.The modern participant at the Nemean is not required to use the oil, nor to compete in the nude – although that would be authentic. Rather, when each competitor enters the apodyterion tent, he or she is given a large plastic box, a chiton (tunic), and a zoni (belt). A doulos (slave – in a yellow chiton) will take the box for safe-keeping. The chiton slips over the head, and the zoni tightened around the waist will allow the length of the chiton to be adjusted to suit.

A Hellanodikes (judge) enters the tent when it is time for the next group of runners. He will be dressed in a black himation (long robe) as were the judges at the ancient Nemean Games in memory of the death of Opheltes, and he will be holding a switch of olive with which he will flog anyone who commits a foul or does not obey his orders — as was done in ancient Greece. The Hellanodikes summons the next group to leave the apodyterion and enter the passageway between it and the krypte esodos (hidden entrance tunnel). There he administers the oath of the Nemean Games in Greek: “Do you swear to abide by the rules of the Nemean Games and to do nothing that would bring shame to you, your family, or the spirit of the ancient Games?”

Each participant is expected to respond: “I swear.” And the judge will respond, as he did in antiquity: “Now go forward into the stadium, and be worthy of victory.”Now the participant passes through the 120′ long ancient tunnel (constructed about 2,320 years ago) being careful not to touch the walls, for the graffiti scratched then by ancient athletes can be damaged. At the far end of the tunnel, the participants wait for a blast from the salpinktes (trumpeter, dressed in a maroon chlamys) that signals the crowd to be quiet. Next the keryx (herald, in a blue himation) calls out the name of each athlete.

When the keryx calls his or her name, the participant runs out of the tunnel to the track where another hellanodikes asks each participant to draw a kleros (marble lot) from a bronze helmet. This is the race called the stadion although the ancient stadion race was actually twice as long, but the Nemean stadium track is not preserved to the full ancient length.

With the lanes assigned, each modern athlete positions him-/herself with the toes of one foot in the front groove and the toes of the other foot in the back groove. It does not matter which foot is forward and which behind, but BOTH FEET MUST BE IN THE GROOVES. If both feet are not in the grooves the switch of the Hellanodikes will be felt.

When all the runners have taken their positions, and the aphetes (starter, in a white himation) has prepared the hysplex to his satisfaction, the salpinktes will blow his trumpet, and the aphetes will shout out three ancient words which are the rough equivalent of our English “ready! set! GO!”
“poda para poda” (foot by foot)
“ettime” (ready)
“ápite” (GO)
As he shouts ÁPITE the aphetes pulls the trip-cords which release the hysplex and the torsion-loaded post hurls the barrier-cords to the ground in front of the runners.

The Hellanodikai at the finish line tie a ribbon around the head of the victor, and give him/her a palm branch. These were the immediate tokens of victory that were awarded in antiquity. The salpinktes will blow his trumpet, and the keryx will announce the name of the victor. (The winner should wear the ribbon and keep the palm branch close at hand for the rest of the Games.)

The first of the twelve Labors of Herakles was to slay the Nemean Lion, a beast whose skin could not be penetrated. Herakles was forced to wrestle the Lion and strangle him. Ancient authors tell that Herakles had his base of operations against the Nemean Lion at Kleonai. The modern race which follows the road from Kleonai to Nemea — as did Herakles — is therefore called “The Footsteps of Herakles”. The course of the 7.5 km. race is marked clearly by a Hellanodikes and a doulos at each cross road. It begins from the Temple of Herakles and follows a country road through fields of grain, olive groves, and vineyards. The gradual uphill course becomes much steeper as the road enters and passes through the modern village of Kleonai with Akrokorinthos in the background.

After the last of the Footsteps of Herakles runners crosses the finish line, the participants return to the apodyterion to clean up and dress.

Late that afternoon come the closing ceremonies. The winners, with their ribbons and palm branches, assemble in the apodyterion. All the other participants, clad in their T-shirts, assemble at the north end of the track in front of the Altar of Zeus and then file past the Hellanodikaion to receive a “Nemea” pin. This pin is not only the official badge of participation at the Games, but is also the “ticket” to the banquet that will follow for those who ran in the Nemean Games. Meanwhile the winners will be ordered in accordance with the sequence of races in the krypte esodos. When the keryx calls each name, he or she will come forward to the Hellanodikaion (judges’ stand) to receive the official ancient victory prize — the crown of wild celery.

With all the participants on the ancient track, the final ceremonies of the modern Nemean Games end with a prayer to Nemean Earth and the extinguishing of the flame on the Altar.

In antiquity, the final item on the program of the Olympic games was a victory banquet in the prytaneion (town hall) next to the eternal flame of the goddess Hestia. The equivalent of this at the revived Nemean Games is a banquet in the square by the Town Hall of Ancient Nemea where the office of the Society for the Revival of the Nemean Games is located. Those who have run, and their friends and families, will be hosted by the Society and by the citizens of Ancient Nemea. The evening frequently ends with dancing in the streets.

All the participants ran barefoot and in ancient tunics which they put on in the ancient locker room. Your real medal; feet sore from contact with the same earth where ancient feet ran more than 2,300 years ago – and the knowledge that they had been in direct physical contact with an ancient idea, an ancient spirit, that still lives at the earth of Nemea.

Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr

Posts for Korinthia

The Semeli Estate, Korinthos

  • Nov 5,2019

since 1979 “an evolving tradition in winemaking excellence” Founded in 1979, with deep roots in time-honored winemaking traditions and eyes on the future, the Semeli Estate produces wines of exceptional quality offering consumers best value for money. The sunny Mediterranean climate and the extraordinary terroir, combined with the expert craftsmanship of our winemakers and the successful... read more

Centre of History and Science “GRAMMI.org”

  • Aug 29,2018

The Centre of History and Science "GRAMMI.org" is a new initiative that aims at turning, through its activities, the visit to Corinth to an unforgettable experience. The Centre’s aim is to offer opportunities to visitors to experience, in an innovative, exciting, and interactive way, the importance of Corinth’s history and the scientific and technological achievements connected with it. With... read more

Fonissa Gorge

  • Jan 21,2016

Fonissa is a stream that forms a deep gorge from Vrysoules village to Loutro, in the municipality of Xylokatsro-Evrostini. In antiquity the stream was the natural borders of ancient Pellene, called Krios (ram). The name “fonissa” (female murderer) highlights how dangerous it is to be in its way when it is full of water. The only way to access the gorge is to follow the road from Kato Loutro village... read more

Marina of Xylokastro

  • Jan 21,2016

There is a small marina at the eastern end Xylokastro. It has a slightly narrow entrance and it consists of two parts, and it is more likely to find a spot to dock at the internal part. It also has a good dock and offers a satisfactory protection, with the city only 5 minutes away, so you can easily get food supplies. Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj layout="5"... read more

Loutraki Thermal Spa

  • Jan 21,2016

When you are seeking rejuvenation of the body and the soul, the only choice is the method of hydrotherapy at Loutraki Thermal Spa, in the city of Loutraki. Ancient “Thermes” was a well-known market town at the northern groove of the Corinthian Gulf and it is linked to the mythological “Artmemis Thermia”, who was the protector of the thermal springs. The therapeutic powers of the thermal baths... read more

Diving at Corinth

  • Jan 21,2016

There are many diving schools in Corinthia for those interested in exploring its underwater world. Diving is allowed in the region, except in some specific archaeological sites and sea parks. Fishing with scuba diving equipment is not allowed, including spear guns with oxygen bottles, taking photos or removing antiquities. You can get more information at the local port police stations.Most diving spots... read more

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Archaeological site of Ancient Corinth

arxaia-korinthos1The archaeological site of Ancient Corinth is situated in a village bearing the same name, only a few kilometers from the modern town of Corinth. The area was first inhabited during the Neolithic period, at the eastern foothills of Acrocorinth hill. It was developed in a strategic location; were land communication could be controlled between Peloponnesus and Central Greece, it had fresh water and it oversaw the fertile valley of Corinth. It was perfectly positioned and for that reason the settlement did not change location until the Middle Ages.


Video by fabdrone

arxaia-korinthos2The peak period of ancient Corinth begins with the foundation of its colonies, mainly Corcyra and Syracuse. The Corinthians introduced the trireme to Greece. Ancient Corinth was the most significant commercial destination in the Greek territory. The excavations brought to light the imposing temple of Apollo, the Agora, the temple of Octavia, the shops of Lechaion road, Apostle Paul’s Podium, the theater and the Odeon.

 

Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr

Posts for Korinthia

The Semeli Estate, Korinthos

  • Nov 5,2019

since 1979 “an evolving tradition in winemaking excellence” Founded in 1979, with deep roots in time-honored winemaking traditions and eyes on the future, the Semeli Estate produces wines of exceptional quality offering consumers best value for money. The sunny Mediterranean climate and the extraordinary terroir, combined with the expert craftsmanship of our winemakers and the successful... read more

Centre of History and Science “GRAMMI.org”

  • Aug 29,2018

The Centre of History and Science "GRAMMI.org" is a new initiative that aims at turning, through its activities, the visit to Corinth to an unforgettable experience. The Centre’s aim is to offer opportunities to visitors to experience, in an innovative, exciting, and interactive way, the importance of Corinth’s history and the scientific and technological achievements connected with it. With... read more

Fonissa Gorge

  • Jan 21,2016

Fonissa is a stream that forms a deep gorge from Vrysoules village to Loutro, in the municipality of Xylokatsro-Evrostini. In antiquity the stream was the natural borders of ancient Pellene, called Krios (ram). The name “fonissa” (female murderer) highlights how dangerous it is to be in its way when it is full of water. The only way to access the gorge is to follow the road from Kato Loutro village... read more

Marina of Xylokastro

  • Jan 21,2016

There is a small marina at the eastern end Xylokastro. It has a slightly narrow entrance and it consists of two parts, and it is more likely to find a spot to dock at the internal part. It also has a good dock and offers a satisfactory protection, with the city only 5 minutes away, so you can easily get food supplies. Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj layout="5"... read more

Loutraki Thermal Spa

  • Jan 21,2016

When you are seeking rejuvenation of the body and the soul, the only choice is the method of hydrotherapy at Loutraki Thermal Spa, in the city of Loutraki. Ancient “Thermes” was a well-known market town at the northern groove of the Corinthian Gulf and it is linked to the mythological “Artmemis Thermia”, who was the protector of the thermal springs. The therapeutic powers of the thermal baths... read more

Diving at Corinth

  • Jan 21,2016

There are many diving schools in Corinthia for those interested in exploring its underwater world. Diving is allowed in the region, except in some specific archaeological sites and sea parks. Fishing with scuba diving equipment is not allowed, including spear guns with oxygen bottles, taking photos or removing antiquities. You can get more information at the local port police stations.Most diving spots... read more

Page: 1
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