Spirit of Olympia and Magna Grecia Farm

Travel on a scenic and picturesque journey from the port to Olympia where your introduction to this magnificent site begins on a hidden sanctuary of Zeus, known as Altis, that the ancient Olympic site was built over. Here you will find the Temple of Zeus that formerly housed an oversized golden and ivory statue crafted by the sculptor Phidias to the god of the sky and thunder. If you look closely you can still see the remnants of the Byzantine church built over the sculptor’s workshop.

Walk in the footsteps of ancient Olympians and view the Prytaneion, magistrates’ residence, the Philippeion and Hera’s Temple. Surrounding the Altis are the 12 Treasuries, or small buildings erected as offerings by the then city-states of Greece.

Just beyond the Altis lies the iconic Stadium, the largest of its kind, that seated 20,000 people for the ancient games and, more recently, for the 2014 Olympics hammer throwing competition. Be sure to stop at the Gymnasium with the nearby Vouleuterion and the Leonidaion that housed visitors during the games. Spend some free time exploring the village on your own, imaging what it felt like to be a spectator at the games in a UNESCO World Heritage Site that still lights the flame to start every Olympic games up to the present day.

Make your way back to Agriturismo Magna Grecia where Dimitris Karabelas, his wife Franca Magrini, and their sons Alexis and Francesco will greet you. Their 30-acre family property contains a multitude of olive trees and vineyards that the family has cultivated for over a century. While here, learn all about olive oil and wine production, then be treated to a wine tasting accompanied by mouthwatering handmade dishes such as Tirokafteri spicy feta cheese with herbs, tzatziki, a variety of vegetable dishes, marmalades, and baklava or other local sweets.

Take some time to visit the family’s animal farm and join the family in some festive Greek music and dancing before your return to port.

Sign up for this ancient Olympia tour now for an authentic taste of Greece and a chance to experience the site of the historic Olympic games.