Paris Olympic Torch Lit In Ceremony At Ancient Olympia
The flame for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games has been lit in a ceremonial event at the historic site of ancient Olympia, marking the beginning of its journey to the Summer Games' opening ceremony.
Torch symbolises hope and unity
The ceremony saw the use of a backup flame instead of the traditional parabolic mirror to light the torch due to cloudy skies. The flame symbolises hope and unity, with International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach emphasising its significance in challenging times during his speech.
Flame to embark on relay across Greece and France
Following the traditional lighting ceremony, the flame will embark on an 11-day relay across Greece, covering over 3,100 miles, before being handed over to the Paris Games organisers in Athens on April 26th. From Athens, the torch will set sail for France aboard the historic three-masted ship, the Belem, arriving in Marseille on May 8th. The flame's journey through France will take 68 days, passing through historic sites and cities, including Marseille, founded by Greek colonists over 2,600 years ago.
President Emmanuel Macron has underscores importance of promoting peace
In Paris, the flame will visit significant landmarks, including the site of the Bataclan concert hall attack, as a symbol of resilience and fraternity. French President Emmanuel Macron has underscored the importance of promoting peace and unity through the Olympics, invoking the ancient tradition of the Olympic Truce.
As the torch makes its way to Paris, it will be carried by thousands of torchbearers, embodying the spirit of the Games and the enduring pursuit of excellence. The flame's arrival in Paris on July 26th will end its journey, illuminating the Olympic cauldron until the Closing Ceremony two weeks later. In addition to the Olympic Games, the flame will also light the Paralympic Games, embodying the values of inclusion and solidarity.
