Ancient Elis
Αρχαία Ήλις
Ruins of the city-state that organized the ancient Olympic Games, with an ancient theater and a small museum. Athletes once trained here for a month before competing.
Elis was the city-state responsible for organizing the ancient Olympic Games. Competitors had to train there for a month and pass eligibility checks before walking to Olympia. The site includes an ancient theater, a square and gymnasium remains. The small archaeological museum next door displays excavated mosaics and pottery. Visitors are few, so it is a good stop for anyone interested in Olympic history, especially when driving to Chlemoutsi Castle.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–15:00; often closed Tuesdays; check on site
Nearby sights
- Mercouri Estate
- Chlemoutsi Castle
- Katakolo
- Archimedes Museum (Museum of Ancient Greek Technology)
- Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity
- Archaeological Museum of Olympia
- Palaestra and Gymnasium at Olympia
- Philippeion