The first runner of Olympic Torch, the young athlete Konstantinos Kondylis

Olympic Torch Relay

The Olympic Torch Relay (OTR) is one of the strongest links between the Modern Olympic Movement and the Ancient Olympic Games, and may be considered the second most important communications tool after the Games themselves. The Olympic flame is lit in Olympia, Greece, from rays of the sun in traditional ceremony among the ruins of the original Olympic stadium. The flame is carried back to the newest host country, and may travel in the Olympic Torch Relay for up to 100 days, spreading the message of humanity and light integral to the Games. More>>

Summer Olympic Torch RelayMore>>

Winter Olympic Torch RelayMore>>

Ancient Olympic Torch RelayMore>>

Origin of Olympic Torch RelayThe Olympic Torch Relay originated from Olympia, Greece. The divine origin of fire made it a sacred element. more>>

Lighting Ceremony and RelayThe organisation of the lighting of the flame in Olympia is always handled by the Greek Olympic Committee. more>>

Torch relay traditionsHistorians suggest the flame was born in a temple erected by the ancient Greeks to honour Hera. more>>

Modern Olympic Torch Relay During the Olympic Games in Amsterdam in 1928, a fire was lit in the tower of the stadium, but no torch relay was undertaken. more>>