Panathenaic Stadium
Attikí
The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is a unique marble stadium located in Athens, Greece. Originally built around 330 BC by the statesman Lycurgus as a simple racecourse for the Panathenaic Games, it was later reconstructed in marble by the Roman senator Herodes Atticus around 143 AD. This reconstruction gave the stadium its distinctive all-marble structure and increased capacity to approximately 50,000 spectators. The stadium played a central role in ancient Greek religious and athletic culture, honoring the goddess Athena. After centuries of abandonment following the rise of Christianity, it was excavated in 1869 and refurbished to host the Zappas Olympics in the 19th century. Notably, it was the main venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, hosting opening and closing ceremonies and several athletic events. The stadium continues to serve as a cultural and sporting landmark, hosting events such as the finishing point of the Athens Classic Marathon and the Olympic flame handover ceremony. Its location in a natural ravine between two hills adds to its architectural beauty and historical ambiance, making it a must-visit site for those interested in ancient history and Olympic heritage.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Purchase tickets in advance online for smoother entry. The stadium offers discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for updated opening hours and special events. The site is accessible via public transport and is near other central Athens attractions, making it convenient for combined sightseeing.
Interesting facts
- •It is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.
- •The stadium hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
- •It was originally built around 330 BC and reconstructed in marble around 143 AD.
- •The stadium can seat approximately 50,000 spectators, similar to the Roman Stadium of Domitian.
- •It serves as the finishing point for the annual Athens Classic Marathon and the Olympic flame handover ceremony.
History
The site of the Panathenaic Stadium has hosted athletic events since the 6th century BC, originally as a natural racecourse with spectators seated on surrounding slopes.
In the 4th century BC, Lycurgus constructed a formal stadium with stone benches.
Around 143 AD, Herodes Atticus rebuilt the stadium entirely in Pentelic marble, creating one of the largest stadia of the ancient world with a capacity of 50,000.
The stadium fell into disuse after the 4th century AD with the rise of Christianity.
Excavations in the late 19th century led to its restoration and it became the centerpiece of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
It has since been used for various sporting events, including the 2004 Olympics, and remains a symbol of Greece's athletic and cultural heritage.
Place Guide
The Marble Stands143 AD
Constructed entirely of Pentelic marble during the 2nd century AD reconstruction by Herodes Atticus, these stands are the stadium's most striking feature, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and ancient Greek architectural excellence.
The Track and Field Area330 BC (original), 143 AD (reconstruction)
The central area where ancient and modern athletic competitions took place, measuring approximately 204 meters in length and 34 meters in width, following the original dimensions from the classical period.
Entrance and Surrounding Area
The stadium's entrance faces the former Ilissos river ravine, now covered by a major avenue. Nearby are historical landmarks such as the spring of Kallirrhoe and the sanctuary of Pankrates, adding cultural context to the visit.
Contact
Phone: 21 0752 2984
