Undated Map of Olympia
Ancient Greek Mythology, Religion, Art
« Back to Last Page | Photos: Mythology, Religion, Art in Olympia »
Olympia is the site of the ancient Greek Olympics. The original Olympic games occurred every four years with hardly any interruption for nearly 1,200 years - and with a largely unchanged program. Only in the 4th century CE were they finally abolished by the Christian emperor of Rome Theodosius II. The focal point of Olympia was not the stadium (located off to the side of this map) but the Temple of Zeus.
North of the Temple of Zeus is the Heraion, or the Temple of Hera. Between them is the Great Altar of Zeus where sacrifices to Zeus were made during the ancient Olympic Games. Unlike the lighting of the torch at the Temple of Hera, this is one tradition that wasn't recreated for the modern Olympics. Scholars estimate its height to have been around 7m which grew over time as more and more ashes were added from the animal sacrifices. Because of this height, thousands could observe the public rituals in honor of Zeus.
« Back to Last Page | Photos: Mythology, Religion, Art in Olympia »
