In the sacred valley between the Cronion Hill and the Alfeios River (or Alpheus River), during ancient times, and afterwards every four years, athletic games were organized in this area where young Greeks congregated to win the laurel wreath, an olive branch, honoring the values of sportsmanship, fellowship and peace.
Ancient Olympia, Ancient Elis, the Chlemoutsi Castle, which indicates the existence of knights, and the Agia Eleousa Monastery are some of the major “must-visit” monuments in the area because the magic and dynamic they exude will simply fascinate you.
Ilia is a blessed region with deep historical roots, it has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was named after King Helios, whose son Augeas was one of the featured mythological characters in Hercules’ myth.