Archaeology in Greece

Olympia is one of the most atmospheric ancient sites in all of Greece. As the birthplace of the Olympic Games - which were held here every four years for an incredible 1100 years - you can still imagine the cheering crowds and honed athletes as you explore the Temple of Zeus, Gymnasium and the 40,000-seater stadium. You’ll also be invited to visit the fascinating Archaeological Museum of Olympia which displays statues, ceramics and artefacts found in and around the site.

This full-day excursion features three of the most important cultural treasures in the Peloponnese. Starting with a tour of Epidaurus, you’ll visit the city’s miraculous healing sanctuary before taking a seat within the exquisite limestone amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the whole of Ancient Greece. Next, it’s the ruins of mighty Mycenae, once the most powerful kingdom in Greece, to hear about the tragic tale of Agamemnon and to pay your respects at the Treasury of Atreus. The tour completes in the seaside city of Nafplio, famed for its elegant Venetian architecture and sun-splashed neoclassical mansions.

Enjoy an audience with guest lecturer, Eugenia Alexiou, as she deepens your understanding of the locations, stories and history of Ancient Greece by way of two specialist lectures held during your stay. Eugenia was born in Athens and studied Archaeology and Art History at the National University of Athens. She holds a Masters degree in Byzantine Art and is an accomplished orator and storyteller.

In ancient Greece all roads led to Delphi; they believed it was the centre of the universe, the home of Apollo and a sacred place where humans could communicate with gods. Even today it’s a magical place, beautifully preserved on a mountainside overlooking the Gulf of Corinth. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi is one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe.