Following the positive developments announced today by the Ministry of Culture and the “green light” from the Central Archaeological Council to proceed with the third phase of excavations, the Ancient Olympic Gymnasium is now closer to full configuration and full exposure. Among other things, KAS gave a positive opinion on the static study of the slopes and the drainage study of the rainwater of the excavation pit.
The statement of the Minister of Culture Linas Mendoni is typical that the opening and lighting of the Gymnasium in Ancient Olympia, the training place of the athletes participating in the Olympic Games, continues unhindered by the Ministry of Culture. The authorized Ephorate of Antiquities of Ilya added the following: “At the same time, with the opening of the monument, we are creating a flood protection network for it, since its location next to the Kladeos River makes it vulnerable to flooding events.
With the completion of the excavation of the Ancient Gymnasium, as well as the Ancient The restoration and illumination of important Roman monuments at Olympia, such as the Baths, the Workshop of Phidias, and the so-called ‘House of Nero’, have completed the description of the archaeological site, broadening visitors’ horizons and enhancing their experiences.”
It should be noted that the Ancient Olympic Gymnasium was built in the II century. e.g. It is next to the bed of the Kladeos river and belongs to the same complex as the palaestra, which is located in its immediate vicinity.
It is a large enclosed oblong building with a large courtyard with Doric arcades on all four sides.