The altar on the Acropolis was lit by Olympian Periklis Iakovakis, who received the Light from swimming champion Andreas Vazaios in the Propylaia.
"It is a unique moment," said Iakovakis. "The beauty of the Acropolis is incredible, and to have the privilege of lighting the altar with the Olympic Flame is an honor. I hope that the spirit of the Games will inspire us all to strive for peace and harmony, especially in these challenging times."
The Torch Relay to the Acropolis was led by Choreographer of the Olympic Flame Ceremonies Artemis Ignatiou and six-time Olympian Agi Kasoumi.
The Olympic Flame then began its journey across Greece, starting from the picturesque island of Santorini. From there, it traveled to Naxos, where the altar in the port was lit by Deputy Minister of Sports Yannis Vroutsis. Olympic champion Olga Vasdeki was among the Torchbearers.
In Paros, the altar was lit by canoe and kayak champion Christos Tsakmakis in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd. Children from local sports clubs, including AO Paros, NO Paros, AMES Nireas, and Marpisaikos, lined the streets, practicing their favorite sports and creating a festive atmosphere.
"It was a wonderful sight to see the children waiting for the Olympic Flame, playing sports and celebrating the Olympic spirit," said President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee Spyros Kapralos. "This is what the Games are all about: bringing people together, inspiring youth, and promoting peace and unity."
On the fifth day of the Torch Relay, the Olympic Flame will leave the Acropolis and pass through several historic landmarks in Athens, including the Ministry of National Defense, the Hellenic Olympic Committee, the Olympic Stadium, the Olympic Museum, and the Asia Minor Monument in New Philadelphia. It will then head to Delphi, Lamia, and Volos, where it will spend the night.
The Olympic Flame will continue its journey across Greece until it reaches the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens on March 25th, where it will be used to light the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.