ATHENS OLYMPIC GAMES
Immerse yourself in the heart of Athens' Olympic heritage, the symbolic birthplace of the first modern Olympic Games, organized in 1896 at the initiative of Pierre de Coubertin, who chose the Greek capital in homage to the ancient Games. This tour invites you to explore three emblematic sites of this revival: the Panathenaic Stadium, a majestic witness to the first Olympic competitions; the Zappeion, the organizational center and symbolic heart of the Games; and the Athens Tennis Club, where the tennis events of the very first modern Games took place.
Between ancient heritage and 19th-century modernity, this journey tells the story of the rebirth of a universal ideal in the heart of Athens, where the Olympic dream became a reality once again.
The Panathenaic Stadium
A symbol of the first modern Olympic Games, the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens impresses with its majestic white marble construction. Originally built in the 4th century BC, it was completely restored to host the athletics events in 1896, as well as the finals of tug-of-war and wrestling.
The reconstruction of the stadium was made possible thanks to the generous patronage of Georges Averoff, whose statue stands proudly at the entrance in homage to his decisive role.
The Zappeion
A masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, the Zappeion is one of the iconic venues of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Located in the heart of Athens, a stone's throw from the National Garden, it hosted the fencing events in its elegant interior gallery.
Nearby was the Neosoieion, which served as the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee for the duration of the Games.
Even today, the Zappeion remains a place of memory and prestige, blending architectural heritage, Olympic history and Greek culture, in the very heart of the ancient capital.
The Athens Tennis Club
Founded at the end of the 19th century, the Athens Tennis Club is one of the pioneering venues of the first modern Olympic Games. It was here that the tennis events of the 1896 Games took place, and then again those of the Intermediate Games of 1906.
Nestled in the heart of the capital, near the Zappeion and the Panathenaic Stadium, the club bears witness to Greece's foundational role in modern Olympic history. Even today, it remains a vibrant place dedicated to sport and tradition, where the spirit of the first Games still lingers.
Visiting Athens
Important information: There is no longer a physical Tourist Information Office in Athens.
You can consult the websites below to help you prepare for your trip.