“Holding an Olympic Games means evoking history.”
Pierre de Coubertin
Paris Olympics 2024: A Traveler’s Guide. Undoubtedly, you’ve heard that 2024 is an Olympic year for Paris. From July 26 to August 11, the city will host the Olympic Games for the third time.
The Olympic Games trace their roots back to 776 B.C. in ancient Greece but did you know that we owe the modern games to a Frenchman?
Ancient Beginnings
Œnochoé, -400 / -350 BC © 2005 Musée du Louvre / Daniel Lebée/Carine Deambrosis
The ancient Olympics were held every four years, between August 6 and September 19, during a religious festival honoring Zeus. After the Roman Empire conquered Greece in the mid-2nd century B.C., the Games continued but declined in standards. Finally, in 393 A.D. Emperor Theodosius I ended the ancient Olympic tradition
Revival and Modernization
The idea of resurrecting the Olympics emerged in the late 19th century with Pierre de Coubertin (1863-1937), a French educator and aristocrat. Inspired by sportsmanship and international cooperation, Coubertin sought to establish a modern version of the Olympics.
In November 1892, Coubertin proposed the idea of reviving the Olympics as an international athletic competition. Two years later, he received approval to found the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The first modern Olympics were held in Athens in 1896. King Georgios I and 280 participants from 12 nations (all male) competed in 43 events.
Vase depicting the Olympic Games at the Carnavalet Museum
Olympic Symbols
Drawing of Olympic rings by Pierre de Coubertin @ IOC
The official symbol of the modern Games is five interlocking colored rings, representing the continents of North and South America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and Australia but there is also a mascot chosen by the host country. For example, this year France has chosen the Phryges.
Les Phryges
These happy little red hats are based on an item of clothing that is a symbol of freedom, has been part of French History for centuries, and dates back to ancient times. It was found on certain flags in Latin America before becoming widely popularised by French revolutionaries, the Phrygian cap has now become a familiar symbol in France. A symbol of revolutions, the French Republic, and freedom. This cap can be seen on the French national icon Marianne. It is depicted in busts at town halls across the country as well as on stamps, and aditionally covered in the national curriculum in schools.
While these games are called Paris 2024, they are being played throughout France, including Versailles, Nantes, Bordeaux, Marseille, and Lyon
===================================== Paris 2024 Olympic Venues Map @IOC
Paris 2024: A Traveler’s Guide to Navigating Closures
The city of Paris is proud to host many events within the city limits. Iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and historic streets will serve as backdrops for various competitions.
However, the grandeur of the event comes with a unique challenge for Parisians and visitors alike—several areas of the city will be temporarily closed to the public (Concorde, parts of the Champs de Mars, the Alexander III bridge, for example) to facilitate the smooth flow of Olympic activities. Don’t worry though, these obstacles present an opportunity to explore Paris in a different light, with the help of your private guide who can enhance your experience and help you navigate the city’s enchanting offerings.
Olympic Marathon map @ IOC
La Compagnie des Guides, a leading tourism and guiding company based in Paris, brings unparalleled expertise to navigating security zones. Moreover, we ensure seamless access to the city’s highlights, even during high-profile events like the Paris Olympics. Furthermore, our experienced guides are well-versed in security protocols and have undergone rigorous training to adapt to dynamic situations. Consequently, we confidently lead clients through designated routes, ensuring an unforgettable experience without compromising safety.
In close collaboration with trusted partners, including local authorities and security agencies, La Compagnie des Guides maintains real-time awareness of the security landscape during the Paris Olympics. This strategic alliance allows us to stay ahead of security-related developments, adjusting itineraries and activities accordingly. By prioritizing client safety, we offer exclusive access to iconic Parisian landmarks and events, providing a unique and memorable experience even amidst heightened security measures associated with major international events like the Olympics.
Crafting Your Olympic Experience
Paris is not just a city; it’s a living masterpiece waiting to be explored. During the 2024 Olympics, let La Compagnie des Guides be your companion in unraveling the magic of Paris.
Certainly, Paris 2024 promises not just athletic excellence but also an opportunity to discover the city’s soul in the company of those who know it best.