Katakolo

Katakolo is a picturesque seaside town located on the western coast of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. It's renowned as the gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Ancient Olympia: A visit to Katakolo wouldn't be complete without exploring the nearby ancient site of Olympia, famous of the ancient Olympic Games, which were held every four years. The games were dedicated to the god Zeus and were a central part of Greek religious and cultural life.
The site of Ancient Olympia includes various structures such as temples, altars, statues, and athletic facilities like the stadium and gymnasium. The most notable building at Olympia was the Temple of Zeus, which housed the renowned statue of Zeus made by the sculptor Phidias, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The ancient Olympic Games attracted athletes and spectators from all over the Greek world and beyond, promoting unity and competition among city-states.

Olympia Archaeological Museum: After exploring the ancient ruins, visit the Olympia Archaeological Museum to see a fascinating collection of artifacts discovered at the site. The museum's collection includes a wide array of objects dating from prehistoric times to the early Christian period. Some of the most notable artifacts include sculptures, pottery, bronze statues, architectural fragments, and votive offerings dedicated to the gods by ancient athletes and visitors to the sanctuary.
Among the highlights of the museum are the sculptures from the Temple of Zeus, including the famous statue of Hermes of Praxiteles and fragments of the colossal statue of Zeus by Phidias. Other notable exhibits include the Nike of Paionios and various artifacts related to the ancient Olympic Games.

Katakolo Beach: Relax on Katakolo's sandy beach, which offers calm waters and beautiful views of the surrounding coastline. Sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and kayaking. There are also waterfront cafes and taverns where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal.

Wine Tasting: Visit a local winery to sample wines produced in the region. Learn about the winemaking process and the different grape varieties grown in the area. Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings where you can try a selection of red, white, and rosé wines

Olive Oil Tasting: The region around Katakolo is known for its olive oil production. Take a tour of a local olive grove and olive oil mill to learn about the olive oil making process and sample different varieties of olive oil. Many tours also include tastings of other local products such as olives, wine, and cheese.


Shopping and Dining:
Explore the charming streets of Katakolo lined with souvenir shops, boutiques, and cafes. Pick up unique gifts and souvenirs such as local handicrafts, olive oil products, and Greek wines. When it comes to dining, you'll find a variety of restaurants serving fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and international cuisine.

Cruise Port:
Katakolo is a popular stop for cruise ships, so if you're arriving by cruise, take advantage of the shore excursions offered to explore Olympia and other nearby attractions.