Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
Katakolon is a port admired for its
beautiful beaches. Equally important, Katakolon is the gateway to Olympia.
The ancient venue of the Olympic Games is thought to have been established
originally as a local funerary celebration.
The first historical reference to the games can be found in 776 B.C.,
when a treaty between kings Iphitos of Elis and Lykourgos of Sparta provided
for an Olympic truce during the summer games. From this date on, lists were
kept of the winners in the foot race around the stadium, which took place
every four years. The winners received a branch from the sacred olive tree
as well as material rewards. After their heyday in the 5th century, the
games gradually declined and were banned by the Emperor Theodosius. After an
existence of more than a thoUSAnd years the games came to an end in 393 A.D.
The site of ancient Olympia is situated at the foot of the wooded Mount
Kronos in an area of gentle hills; excavations began in 1875 and are
considered one of archaeology’s great achievements. Today, visitors to
Olympia are overwhelmed by the impact of the ancient remains and their
significance. The site’s most important excavations include numerous
monuments, such as the Temple of Zeus in the Sacred Precinct, the Treasuries
and the Stadium.
Shopping
There is only one main road in Katakolon; here you will find a variety
of shops selling jewelry and typical Greek souvenirs, especially those
with the Olympic motif. |
Cuisine
Along the waterfront are some small tavernas offering local specialties
such as lamb, fresh fish, Greek salads and honey-soaked baklava for
dessert. |
Other Sights
The main reason for a visit to Katakolon is the trip to Olympia. Those
guests who remain in Katakolon will enjoy its unhurried atmosphere and
the friendliness of the people. |
|
Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |