Original Olympic Stadium – Panathinaiko Stadium in Athens, Greece
When it comes to historical athletic stadiums, few can compete with Panathinaiko Stadium.
Located in the heart of Athens, the legendary stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and is the only major stadium in the world that is built entirely of white marble.
We spotted the eye-catching stadium from the top of the Acropolis, while we were scanning the Athens panorama in search of its impressive landmarks. Intrigued by its design, we managed to navigate our way through the city to the stadium entrance, where we found ourselves completely alone – not a tourist or resident in sight. Sadly, the stadium was locked up so we couldn’t explore it from the inside.
Panathinaiko Stadium (also known as Panathenaic Stadium) is said to be one of the oldest stadiums in the world, originally built in 566 BC and rebuilt with marble in 329 BC. Standing in its presence, knowing that it is over 2,500 years old, is a humbling experience.
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Have you visited Athens, Greece? Did you get a chance to see this marvelous stadium?
Share your story in the comments section below!
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Cameron and Nicole Wears are Canadian married couple and newbie parents living in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. A passion for travel and outdoor adventure has taken them to over 50 countries on 6 continents in the past 7 years. Consider following us via 
YES! I have been there! It was a dream come true! I have always been obsessed with sports and the Olympics (have a 20+ year history of skipping school or work to watch) and so when in Athens I had to go here! I was so surprised by its small size. What a marvel. I definitely had tears in my eyes as we were walking up to it and then I just stood and stared for 20 minutes while my dad explored. Then I called my mom back in the US standing right by the track. I just really believe in the power of the Olympics to inspire and unite, so seeing this stadium had powerful significance to me.
Thanks for sharing your story Ellen!
It’s hard to believe that such a stadium has been around for over 2,500 years!
Traveling Canucks recently posted..7 Super Shots from Our Travels
Awesome…I’m a bit of an Olympics nut and hope to get here one day…
The World of Deej recently posted..Florida Boy Seeks Cold Weather and Snow – Will Travel
I hope you do too!
There’s something about seeing an Olympic Stadium in Greece that makes it extra special. It’s as if you can envision the Greek Gods racing each other around the track
Traveling Canucks recently posted..Drinking Beer Around the World – Part Eleven
Cool, I remember seeing this place when I visited Athens.
Ruth of Tanama Tales recently posted..That Boring Place Called Cancun
Wonderful! If i were to visit that place, I will wait for an important olympic event to happen.
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