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Panathenaic

Panathenaic Stadium

Panathenaic Stadium (also known as the Kallimarmaro) in Athens, Greece — one of the most iconic historical sports venues in the world.

🏟️ Panathenaic Stadium Overview

  • Name: Panathenaic Stadium (Panathinaiko Stadio or Kallimarmaro, meaning “beautifully marbled”)
  • Location: Athens, Greece
  • Built: Originally around 330 BC, rebuilt in marble by Herodes Atticus in 144 AD
  • Reconstructed: 1896 for the first modern Olympic Games
  • Material: Entirely made of white Pentelic marble
  • Capacity: ~45,000 spectators

🕰️ History Highlights

  1. Ancient Origins:
    • Built for the Panathenaic Games, a religious and athletic festival held every 4 years in honor of Athena.
    • The original stadium was wooden, then rebuilt in marble in the 2nd century AD.
  2. Modern Significance:
    • Hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
    • Served as the finishing point for the Athens Marathon and venue for archery events in the 2004 Olympics.
    • Often used for ceremonial events and celebrations, including Olympic flame handovers.

🎯 Top Things to See and Do

1. Walk the Track

  • You can run or walk on the same track used in the 1896 Olympics — a unique experience.

2. Climb to the Top

  • Enjoy panoramic views of Athens, including the Acropolis and Mount Lycabettus.

3. Visit the Olympic Memorabilia Exhibit

  • Located in the vaulted passage (crypt), featuring torches from past Olympic Games and historic photos.

4. Photo Opportunity

  • Take the classic photo at the podium at the end of the track.

🎟️ Visitor Information

  • Opening Hours:
    • Summer: 08:00–19:00
    • Winter: 08:00–17:00
    • Closed on certain holidays (e.g., Jan 1, Dec 25)
  • Ticket Price:
    • Adults: ~€10
    • Reduced (students, seniors): ~€5
    • Children under 6: Free
  • Free Admission Days:
    • March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day)
    • April 18 (International Monuments Day)
    • May 18 (International Museums Day)
    • Last weekend of September (European Heritage Days)

🚶‍♂️ How to Get There

  • Metro: Nearest station is Syntagma (Line 2), then a ~10-minute walk
  • Bus: Routes 209, 550 (stop: “Stadio”)
  • On Foot: A scenic walk from the Acropolis or Plaka neighborhoods

📝 Tips for Visitors

  • Bring water and a hat in summer — the marble reflects heat!
  • Best times to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Zappeion, National Garden, or Temple of Olympian Zeus, all nearby.

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