The Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity

Description:

• The museum, which opened in 2004, occupies the handsome neoclassical building that served as the site's original archaeological museum. The path to the museum is steep; it is sometimes possible to get permission to drive up and drop off passengers by the museum's entrance. The collection is superb; the text (Greek, English, German) posted on exhibits is extensive. Each of the 12 galleries has a theme, including "The Beginning of the Games," "Zeus and his Cults," "The Events," and Games at other ancient sites (Nemea, Isthmia, Delphi). Exhibits document the growth of the Games from a sprint on 1 day to 5 days of events for hundreds of athletes from around the Greek world. In wrestling, breaking fingers was forbidden, eye-gouging was permitted. In each event, there was only one winner: There were no runners-up at Olympia. Displays include massive chariot wheels, delicate musical instruments, statues of lithe athletes, and all manner of athletic gear.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010