Ancient Nemea was an unexpected find during our 2024 trip to Greece. We had just left Ancient Mycenae, while on our way to Nafplio, we saw a sign pointing towards Ancient Nemea. We decided why not checked it out. So we did. What a great find! We had no expectations but found Ancient Nemea to be a spectacular site with a abundant history. We also loved the very detailed museum.
History of Ancient Nemea, Greece
Ancient Nemea is best known for the Temple of Zeus and Stadium of the Panhellenic Games. Its history extends to prehistoric Greece. Archeological evidence can date this area back to the Neolithic Period (7000-3000BC).
Held in summer, The Nemean Games, were part of the Panhellenic Games. Athletes would compete to win the Panhellenic Games for fame and recognition throughout the Ancient Greek world. The Nemean Games are one of four places games and religious festivals were held in Ancient Greece. The other sites were Olympia, Delphi, and Isthmia and these sites rotated every four years.
The Temple of Nemean Zeus
The beautiful ruins of the Temple of Zeus are amazing. Interestingly, the current ruins seen date to 330 BC and sit upon an earlier temple from the 6th century BC. Although, there is not much information about the 6th century temple. According to Archeological research, the current temple was partially constructed from dismantled pieces of the older temple. Early recycling! The 4th century BC Temple of Zeus contained 32 limestone columns. Each column was 42 feet high and was constructed with 13 large drums stacked upon each other.
Ancient Stadium of Nemea
The other great site at Ancient Nemea is the Ancient Stadium of Nemea. The stadium was built between 330-320 BC in a separate location but near the Temple of Zeus. The two buildings shared a close connection as the Panhellenic games would coincide with religious festivals. The Stadium of Nemea was a big part in the ancient Olympics. The event held here was the running event known as the stadion.
The Museum
We do not go to many museums. However, we visited more of them on our 2024 Greece trip than we ever have. The Nemean Museum is one that we truly embraced. We knew nothing of this site until seeing Ancient Nemea on a road sign so the museum informed us nicely! Many beautiful pieces of carved marble, ceramics, and jewelry are on display along with information of the area and history of Ancient Nemea.
Conclusion
All in all, visiting Ancient Nemea and the museum were very nice. It is surprising to me that this ancient site in Greece is not as well known as many other sites, especially since it is not far from Ancient Mycenae. Although perhaps people visiting Mycenae and do not have time for both sites. For most of our visit, we did not see any other visitors and when we did, there were only a few others here. If you want to see a beautiful Temple and Stadium while in Greece, Ancient Nemea is a great site to consider. In addition, the area it is in is really picturesque.
Where We Stayed
While in Nafplio we stayed at Anthemion Suites and Villas. Although it was not in the old town it was a perfect spot for us. The location is just up the hill from old town, about a 15 minute walk. Anthemion Hotel is very nice and family owned. The room we were in was clean and comfortable and although not large, it was nicely arranged. Sliding doors led to a large balcony with a beautiful view of the countryside. This hotel also offers a nice size pool which was very refreshing after returning from exploring each day. Breakfast was a buffet and so very good! The Poolside dinner was also a treat. What really impressed us about Anthemion Suites and Villas was the staff. Friendly, helpful, and a wealth of information.
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Ancient Mycenae Greece-August 2024
2 Weeks in Greece-Delphi, Meteora, Corfu, Santorini, Athens, Sept 2022
14 Days in Greece-Crete,Naxos, Santorini Sept 2021
10 Day Greece Itinerary-Crete, Santorini, Athens, September 2019
8 Day Greece Itinerary-Athens, Milos, Santorini, September/October 2018
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What a gorgeous open-air museum! Have a wonderful time back in Greece!
Thanks! We are having a fantastic time!
Wonderful – when comparing to Mycenae or Delphi, this site really isn’t very well known – but it has some really lovely preserved structures which are incredible to have to yourself. I will add it to my list for my next trip to Greece 🙂
We were really happy to find it. Stopped on a whim and glad we did!
Appreciate your photo tour of Nemea. Writing a fictional acct of 5th-6th c. and 13th-14th Christians in Nemea. Do you have more photos of the basilica?
Sorry but I do not. Good luck with your writings! Lori
Do you have any Greek recipes from your stay in Nemea?
I have lots of Greek recipes but not specifically from Nemea.