From the Home of the Olympics to the Magic of Delphi

What an amazing experience to see where the Olympics began. Did you know that Olympia is still where the Olympic torch is lit at the beginning of each Olympic games? The tradition of a torch with a flame come from the Greek myth in which Prometheus stole fire from Zeus and took it to earth to teach people how to cook and make things. Once the Olympic torch is lit, it travels around the world to the city hosting that year's games. The next summer Olympic games (2012) will be held in London and the next winter Olympic games (2014) will be held in Sochi, Russia.

Touring the ruins at Olympia was a treat. Mike and I wandered around the old stadium site and walked around and through the temples.


Aerial view of the Ancient Site of Olympia



Temple of Hera



Entrance to the Ancient Stadium



Still walking through the entrance



We are standing at the far end of the Ancient Stadium. The entrance in in the back left of the photo, about 246 steps away from where we are standing.


Our trusty Citroen


We left Olympia after touring the ruins and drove the four hours to the magical city of Delphi. I am in love with this town, population 3,500 (plus at least 1,000 tourists), and never want to leave! It is situated on the slope of Mount Parnassus overlooking the Corinthian Sea. It is gorgeous.

In stark contrast to Hotel Antontios in Olympia, Hotel Varonos (named for the owners) is fabulous! It is perfectly located in the center of the main street, with a welcoming atmosphere and huge dining room! Can't wait for breakfast tomorrow. http://www.hotel-varonos.gr/

This evening we wandered into a souvenir shop and talked with Dimitris and Elena, the owners, for over an hour. We told them why we were visiting and they explained a little about themselves and the town. We learned that all the media attention about the strikes in Athens have hurt their business even though they are almost 200 miles away from it. Most tourists fly into Athens, but with the negative attention tourists are not visiting as they normally do. Well, I can verify that Delphi is safe! Athens is a big city and has its dangers as always, but cities outside are fine!!

Our dinner at Patrikomas was delicious! I ate chicken souvlaki and Michael ate moussaka (his new favorite). The restaurant was at the edge of the slope and provided the best views of the valley and sea. I am now relaxing at our hotel, Hotel Varonos (named for the owners), which is my favorite of this two week trip. We have a view, a great room, and wonderful owners who greeted us with big smiles.

Tomorrow we are going to the ruins to see the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Athena, and the site of the Delphic oracle. I imagine it will be pretty awesome!