Sunday, November 11, 2007

Greece's Ancient Olympia Shore Excursion Shows Off Original Olympic Games Site


I'd really like to cruise the Mediterranean someday and visit Greece. It's one of the countries I didn't get to see when I did my Rick Steves' tour through Europe a couple years ago, but I really enjoyed Greek history when I was in school.

For those of you who are thinking of a cruise to this part of the world, too, I've been checking out some of the shore excursions.

Be prepared: when you cruise through the Mediterranean, the shore excursions tend to be more about sightseeing and appreciating history than the constant entertainment of many Mexican or Caribbean vacations.

This trip to Ancient Olympia looks like a great chance to see some remnants of Greek history:

You get to see "the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the most important sanctuary of Zeus, father of all gods and goddesses. The starting line is still visible etched on the marble in the stadium there, inviting you to run and in your imagination compete with the ancient athletes. Enjoy the play of light on the soft greenery and dappled ancient columns in this wonderful and peaceful setting." Also "visit the archaeological museum beside the ancient site. It contains most interesting exhibits such as the pediments and the metopes of the Temple of Zeus, the Statue of Nike and of Hermes."

You can take advantage of the Ancient Olympia shore excursion if your cruise ship docks at Katakolon.

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