Guide to Visiting the Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia

What You Need to Know about Visiting the Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia

Author: Janice Vazquez | Last updated: June 9, 2024

Three columns and a grass patch — *Temple of Hera and Heras Altar*

The Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia offer a captivating journey through ancient Greek history, where you can explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The Games were initially a festival held in honor of Zeus, attracting athletes and spectators from various Greek city-states. Over time, the athletic competitions, which began in 776 BCE, evolved into a symbol of unity and peace among the often warring states, solidifying Olympia’s place in history as the cradle of the Olympic Games.

In this guide, I’ll share what to expect during your visit to the Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia, covering aspects such as parking options, key landmarks to see, and duration spent exploring the archaeological site and museum.

General Information

Upon arriving at the ticket booth, you only need to purchase a single ticket for admission to the Archaeological Site of Olympia, Archaeological Museum of Olympia, Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity, and the Museum of the History of the Excavations in Olympia. In the chart below, you’ll notice that during the winter season the tickets are discounted by 50%. You’ll also find the Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia’s opening hours and admission.

Season	Admission	Hours of Operation	Days Closed
Winter (Nov – Mar)	6 euros	8:30 AM – 3:30 PM	Dec 25, Dec 26, Jan 1, Mar 25, Good Friday, Holy Saturday
Summer (Apr – Oct)	12 euros	8:00 AM – 8:00 PM	May 1, Easter Sunday

Archaeological Site & Museum of Olympia’s Admission and Hours of Operation

Time Needed: 2 hours

How to Get to the Archaeological Site and Museum of Olympia from Athens:

Athens is about 300 kilometers (or about 186 miles) from Olympia.

By Car: If you drive yourself, it’ll take about 3 hours and 30 minutes. There is a designated parking area available near the entrance.
By Bus: There are local buses called KTELS that depart from the Kifissos bus terminal in Athens. The trip will take roughly 6 hours.
Guided Tour: You can book a guided, small-group, or private tour to Ancient Olympia.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/eNfmxfLVvmoswWds9

What to see in the Archaeological Museum of Olympia

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts, from statues, sculptures, pottery to other objects that date back to the prehistoric period. When visiting, here are some key exhibits to look out for:

1. The Statue of Hermes and the Infant Dionysus

Left side of the Statue of Hermes and the Infant Dionysus ( — *Left side of the Statue of Hermes and the Infant Dionysus*

*Right side of the Statue of Hermes and the Infant Dionysus*

This marble statue was created by the ancient Greek sculptor Praxiteles, depicts the god Hermes holding the infant Dionysus. This statue was discovered in 1877 at the Temple of Hera and is considered one of the finest examples of classical Greek art, showcasing the intricate details and aesthetic ideals of the period.

2. Nike of Paionios

A golden statue on a column on display — *Nike of Paionis*

This marble statue was created by the sculpture Paionios of Mende around 420 BC, depicts the winged goddess Nike symbolizing victory. It was dedicated to commemorate a military triumph by the Messenians and Naupactians over the Spartans.

3. Pediments from the Temple of Zeus

A statue of a semi-naked man without legs on displa — *Pediment of the Temple of Zeus*

A statue of headless men on display — *Pediment of the Temple of Zeus*

These monumental sculptures adorned the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, dating back to around 470 – 456 BC. The east pediment depict scenes from the chariot race between Pelops and Oenomaus, symbolizing the ideals of justice and divine intervention. The west pediment shows the battle between the Lapiths and Centaurs, representing the struggle between civilization and barbarism.

4. Bronze Collection

An assortment of bronze sheets on display — *Bronze Sheets*

A Bronze helmet on display — *Bronze helmet*

An extensive collection of bronze artifacts, featuring weapons, armor, and figurines, showcases the technological advancements and artistic skills of the ancient Greeks. Be sure to view the Helmet of Miltiades, a bronze helmet believed to have been dedicated by the Athenian general Miltiades after his victory at the Battle of Marathon.

5. Pottery and Terracotta Figurines

An assortment of Pottery on display — *An assortment of Pottery*

a terracotta statue in the color of light brown — *Terracotta statue, was on top of the Treasury House*

A variety of pottery and terracotta figurines representing gods, animals, and everyday life, providing insight into the daily lives and religious practices of the ancient inhabitants.

After the museum, take a 5-minute walk down the pathway to explore the ancient ruins at the Archaeological Site of Olympia.

Time Needed: 1 hour in the museum

What to see in the Archaeological Site of Olympia

The Archaeological Site of Olympia showcases the remnants of the Temple of Zeus, Temple of Hera, the ancient stadium and more. When visiting, here are some key landmarks to look out for:

1. The Temple of Zeus

Broken ruins scattered throughout — *Temple of Zeus*

The Temple of Zeus was built between 472 and 456 BC and considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Dedicated to the god Zeus, it played a central role in the religious and social life of ancient Greece, especially during the Olympic Games.

2. Temple of Hera

A man standing in front of a building with three columns — *Julius at the Temple of Hera*

The Temple of Hera was built around 600 BC and considered one of the oldest temples in Greece. Dedicated to the goddess Hera, it played a central role in the religious activities of Olympic, including the Heraia, a festival dedicated to Hera. It’s also where the Olympic flame (called Hera’s Altar) is lit every four years.

3. Palaestra and Gymnasium

The Palaestra was built in the 3rd and part of the larger gymnasium complex. It was used as a training ground primarily used by wrestlers and other athletes for practicing combat sports. While the gymnasium was built in the 2nd century BC and was a larger training facility used for various athletic exercises and preparation for the Olympic Games

4. Workshop of Pheidias

An open air room with stairs and grass — *Workshop of Pheidias*

The workshop of Pheidias was built in the 5th century BC and was where the renowned sculptor Pheidias created the colossal statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The workshop was a large, rectangular building with a similar layout to the Temple of Zeus, allowing Pheidias to work on the massive statue indoors.

5. Nymphaeum of Herodes Atticus

Broken ruins indicating a fountain that once stood at this site — *Nymphaeum of Herodes Atticus*

The Nymphaeum of Herodes Atticus, also known as the Exedra, was built around 160 AD by the wealthy Athenian benefactor Herodes Atticus in honor of his wife, Regilla. It was a large, semicircular mountain house that supplied water to the site and also served as a decorative element.