Who / What
The Olympic flame is a symbol used in the Olympic movement. It is a representation of continuity between the ancient and modern Olympic Games.
Background & History
The tradition of the Olympic flame originates from ancient Greece, where a sacred flame was kept burning throughout the ancient Olympic Games at the altar of the goddess Hestia. The modern tradition was revived for the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics and expanded at the 1936 Berlin Games with the introduction of the torch relay. The flame is always lit at the ancient site of Olympia in Greece using the sun's rays.
Why Notable
The Olympic flame serves as a powerful symbol of peace, friendship, and the Olympic ideals. It represents the connection between the ancient Greek games and the modern international sporting event. The torch relay leading up to each Games promotes the Olympic spirit globally and generates excitement for the upcoming competition.
In the News
The Olympic flame remains relevant with each new Olympic Games as it travels to the host city. Recent torch relays have adapted to pandemic conditions with modified ceremonies and routes. Its journey continues to symbolize hope and international unity ahead of each Olympic event.
