The Olympic Museum

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | August 12, 2023

The Olympic Museum, Lausanne Switzerland: From Ancient Greece to Paris 2024
…A Journey Through Olympic History

Lake Geneva Entrance to Lausanne’s Olympic Museum

The Olympic Games, a testament to human athleticism and international unity, have captivated the world for centuries. The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland, stands as a beacon, commemorating the ancient origins of the Games and their evolution into a global sporting phenomenon. From the ancient Greek Olympic Games to the preparations for the upcoming 2024 Games in Paris, the (French: Musée Olympique) highlights the sustainable architectural approach of the Olympic Museum and its impact on visitor experiences.

ProTip: Buy the chocolate bar at the gift shop (or six). It’s the best chocolate you may ever taste.

The Mythology of Zeus and the Ancient Olympics

Ancient Greece: The Birthplace of the Olympics
The origins of the Olympics can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the Games were held in Olympia from the 8th century BCE until the 4th century CE. These ancient sporting events celebrated the physical prowess of Greek athletes and served as a gathering for city-states to put aside conflicts and foster peace. The architecture of the ancient Olympic venues, such as the Temple of Zeus and the stadium, showcased the grandeur and importance of the Games.

Pierre de Coubertin’s Revival of the Games

The Olympic Revival: Modern Games and Sustainable Architecture
Inspired by the ancient Olympics, Pierre de Coubertin spearheaded the revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896. Since then, the Games have grown in scale and global significance. In recent years, sustainability has become a key focus in the planning and construction of Olympic venues. Visit Monsieur de Coubertin’s statue overlooking Lake Geneva out the left side of the entrance.