Audio Guide of Crisafeion

As part of the archaeological site of Olympia, the Crisafeion follows the site's opening hours. It is generally open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer, with reduced hours in winter (until 3:00 PM). I recommend checking the exact hours on the official website of the Greek Ministry of Culture and Sports before your visit. It is located within the main complex and is easily accessible while exploring the rest of the archaeological site of Olympia. View Official Opening Hours

The Crisafeion does not have a separate admission ticket; access is included in the general ticket for the archaeological site of Olympia, which grants entry to the entire complex. The ticket price is €12 for adults (2024 price), with discounts for students, EU seniors, and free admission for children and young Europeans. You can buy tickets directly at the site’s ticket office. Buy Tickets Online (Ministry of Culture)

The Crisafeion itself is a relatively small structure within the vast site of Olympia. To fully appreciate the Crisafeion and the rest of the archaeological complex, including the stadium, the Temple of Zeus, and the museum, I would recommend allowing at least 3 to 4 hours. If you are a history or archaeology enthusiast, you could easily spend half a day exploring. Plan for about 15–20 minutes specifically for the Crisafeion, taking in its details and historical setting.

The Crisafeion, also known as the Philippeion, was a circular monument, or tholos, erected by Philip II of Macedon to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Chaeronea (338 BC). It was used to house statues of the Macedonian royal family. Its construction symbolized the assertion of power and prestige by the Macedonian dynasty at the heart of Classical Greece, linking its legacy to the prestige of the Olympic Games. It stands as a testament to the transition of power in ancient Greece.

The best time to visit the Crisafeion and the archaeological site of Olympia in general is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is milder and the crowds are smaller. During summer (June-August), temperatures can be very high, so if you visit then, go early in the morning (right at opening time) or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense heat and the busiest periods.

The archaeological site of Olympia, where the Crisafeion is located, has some areas with uneven ground, such as dirt and gravel paths, which can make wheelchair access difficult in certain places. However, accessibility improvements have been made in parts of the site. As a ruin, the Crisafeion itself may not be fully accessible right up to its remains, but it can be seen from more manageable paths. It is recommended to contact the site administration for updated information about accessible routes. Contact the Ephorate of Antiquities of Elis

Since the Crisafeion is within the archaeological site of Olympia, you will be surrounded by other major points of interest. Do not miss the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the original Olympic Stadium, the Gymnasium, the Palaestra, and of course the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which houses remarkable artifacts found on the site, including the famous statue of Hermes by Praxiteles. The nearby town of Olympia also offers accommodation and dining options.

Yes, absolutely. First, wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking quite a bit over uneven ground. If you visit in summer, do not forget a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Consider hiring a local guide or using an audio guide (such as those from IAudioguia.com) to better understand the rich history of each monument, including the Crisafeion. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the site.