Ancient Olympia for Archaeology Enthusiasts

Hello and welcome! My name is Gregory. I was raised in Patras, which is a city situated in the northest part of the Peloponnese. Since I can remember myself, I was always fascinated by ancient cultures and civilizations. My parents, they still tease me because as a child, whenever we had visitors over I would always talk to them about myths and fables. Years later my dream came true as I graduated from Athens University as an archaeologist. I speak English and French fluently and at some point I became interested in the Tourism sector. I worked for an airline for a few years, until I came to realize that guiding the visitors through the beautiful landscape, the myths and the history of Greece was far more important than just booking their tickets. I have been working as a licensed tour guide for 7 years and I have chosen Ancient Olympia as my base, a unique place marked by the abundance of unique monuments, which celebrate the ancient greek spirit. It's a magical place with rich history and hospitable people. The need to struggle, compete and excel was carved in the soul of the ancient Greeks since the early days, when they organised Games to honour their dead, their Kings and their Gods. Hidden amongst the evergreen hills lies the sacred valley of Olympia, home of the greatest religious festival of Antiquity and Birthplace of the Olympic Games. Let me guide you through the fascinating story of the Olympic Games that became a symbol of noble rivalry and fair play worldwide. Discover the meaning of the Sacred Truce and realise how the ancient Greeks used the Games as a tool to promote peace between the city-states and cease the hostilities between them. Together we will explore the archaeological site giving you the opportunity to appreciate all the monuments that reflect the splendor of Olympia since the 8th century b. C, when the Games started. During the tour we will talk about the amazing stories of the athletes that participated in the Games, but also of the Kings and Roman Emperors, who used the place in order to exercise propaganda and establish political power. You will stand on the spot, where the ceremony of the lighting of the flame takes place in modern times and of course we will have the chance to walk or race inside the ancient stadium, paying tribute to all the thousands of athletes that competed with each other during a long period of 12 centuries. For two centuries already they are conducting excavations in Olympia. Thousands are the amazing finds exhibited in the museums of Olympia and together we will admire the most important ones. I am really passionate when I am guiding and I always enjoy meeting new people. I hope that I can bring the history of the sanctuary to life and make you see Olympia through my eyes. I 've been in this area for several years and I can show you hidden treasures off the beaten track. There are many options for a visitor of Olympia so allow me to create a custom made tour based on your needs and interests and let's discover this amazing place together. I am looking forward to seeing you! I am licensed guide by the Greek Ministry of Culture. Bachelor degree in Archaeology and History of Art from the University of Athens I am a licensed tour guide so i have no limitations when it comes to guiding. I am not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle or I can arrange for a separate car and driver.