The main reason for everyone to call at this port on the western side of the Peloponnesus is, of course, Olympia. After a half-hour bus ride we entered this famous site. By the entrance they have an impressive museum, which includes a lot of treasures. Our Greek guides, as usual gave us guidance and made it possible to bring order to all the artifacts.
The site is nicely situated along a river and several large pine trees make it possible to find shade. Ancient Olympia, a complex of temples, priest dwellings and public buildings, was the site of the original Olympic Games. The first official Olympics were held in 776 BC. At first the games were open to all Greek-born males, and it was not until much later that Romans were permitted to participate.
The games were not only for athletic competition -- writers, historians and poets would gather to read their works and of course, as today, business relations were established, since people from different parts of the Mediterranean came here every four years. The games continued through the Roman Period, though they lost their prestige and importance, especially after Nero had himself declared unrightfully as winner of a chariot race. In AD 394 the games were held for the last time, and it was not until 1896 that the games reappeared. Still, the Olympic Flame is lit at the ancient site.
The afternoon was more leisurely and included a visit to the Mercouri Estate. The owner gave us an introduction to wine and olive production which ended with a wine tasting. Under the pine trees we had the opportunity to try wine, olives and feta cheese. We had brought our piano player along to this event, and he was playing "Zorba the Greek!"
Unfortunately everything comes to an end and by 7 o'clock the Caledonian Stardropped the lines to sail to Sicily. Through the evening on a nice and calm sea we enjoyed an excellent dinner out on the Pool Deck -- something to remember.
