The Lighting of the Olympic Flame

The lighting of the Olympic Flame happens months before the actual games begin. However, as a tradition, the flame is lit in a ceremony hosted in close proximity to the Temple of Hera. This experience can be witnessed by tourists if travelling to Olympia at the time.

Carrying the Olympic Flame is considered a great honour; it represents peace around the universe. The last runner enters the hosting stadium and lights the torch, which stays lit throughout the Olympic season. Several priestesses accompany the High Priestess as she makes her way to the altar in front of the Hera Temple for the lighting, as per the protocol. At this point, she requests Apollo, the Lord of Light, to send the sun's light to illuminate the torch. After being held in the centre of a concave mirror for a few seconds, the Olympic Flame almost invariably burns. Following modern custom, the Head Priestess hands the flame to the first torchbearer, and then the Torch Relay begins. Finally, a few months later, it ends in the Olympic Stadium of the hosting city.