Official Language:
Greek
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Currency:
EUR
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Population:
Approximately 250,000 people call Katakolon/Oylmpi
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Katakolon Olympia Greece: March through May offers pleasant and mild temperatures in Katakolon , while June thorugh August the temperatures rise steadily and dry summers that are cooled by seasonal winds, You will find bright sunshine and very little rainfall. September - October offers beautiful autumn weather, with light rain and occasional winds. Most rain falls between November and February. Average daytime temperatures in January 52°F/11°C in August 92°F/33°C. Visiting during the summer can be exhausting due to the extreme heat.
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Port of Katakolon
The gateway to Olympia and the site of the first Olympic games where the torch is still lit. Olympia was built exclusively for the quadrennial games which were dedicated to Zeus at which time all hostilities were ceased in the name of athletic competition. Visitors can still see the Temple of Zeus and the 45,000 seat stadium as well as the Archaeological Museum houses sculptures. The wrestling grounds should be seen, as well as the Temples of Zeus and Hera. This huge gold statue of Zeus is considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
The area of Olympia and the site of the sanctuary were settled as far back as the early Helladic times of 3000 BC. Until the early second millennium BC a fertility goddess, known as Demeter Chamyne, was worshipped there.
Olympia is one of the most important, religious and cultural sanctuary to first centuries of Greek history. Athletes from all over the Mediterranean gathered within this collection of colossal temples, gymnasiums, and the stadium where some 40,000 people watched the most celebrated games in history. Beginning in 776 B.C., Olympia thrived as the top sports arena until the end of the fourth century A.D., when the games were then outlawed and abandoned. Once a pristine complexion until an earthquake destroyed and followed by a flood that buried the remains. Now Olympia is nothing more than scattered pillars and building blocks. The stadium is most likely the best preserved structure still retaining its shape.
A land of incredible history, where the ancient Greeks came to worship many centuries ago. While little remains here in the ruins there is a proud aura of sanctity is still existent.
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Attractions |
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The Archaeological Museum
Home to some quite exquisite sculptures, including the famous Niki "Winged Victory" by Palonios, "Hermes" by Praxiteles and "Apollo" from the Temple of Zeus.
Olympia
Visit the site of the original Olympic Games, held from 776 B.C. to A.D. 393. It is suggested this tour is done through the cruise line as it is a considerable distance between the port and Olympia.
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More Information |
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Web: http://www.greektourism.com/travel_guide/regions/peloponnese/eleia/olympia/history.stm
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