Tuesday, 16 April 2024 15:43

Light of Hope for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Begins Its Journey

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Olympic Games 2024 Begins Its Journey Olympic Games 2024 Begins Its Journey pixabay

In the shadow of the ancient ruins of Olympia, the birthplace of the sporting spirit, on April 16, 2024, the ceremony of lighting the Olympic torch for the Paris 2024 Olympics took place. Greek actress Mary Mina assumed the role of high priestess, using a backup source of fire instead of the traditional parabolic mirror due to inclement weather, igniting the flame symbolizing peace and hope.

 

What will you learn?

1. Who lit the Olympic flame for the Paris 2024 Olympics?
2. Where did the Olympic torch relay begin?
3. When will the flame handover ceremony take place in Paris?
4. What significance do the Olympic Games hold in the context of contemporary challenges?
5. Which city will host the sailing competitions during the Olympics?

The Torch Relay from Olympia to Paris

Shortly after the ceremony, the Olympic flame embarked on its first journey through the picturesque landscapes of Greece. This 11-day relay will be the first stage of a long journey culminating at the Olympic Stadium in Paris on July 26. During the relay, the flame will pass through the hands of many runners, each carrying a message of peace, hope, and unity, which are the foundation of the Olympic ideal. Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, emphasized the importance of these Games as a symbol of global brotherhood in times of global uncertainty during the ceremony.

Paris Awaits the Olympic Flame

The culmination of the flame's journey will be its handover to the organizers of the Paris Games at the historic Panathinaiko Stadium in Athens, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Subsequently, the flame will be transported to France aboard the three-masted ship Belem, which will arrive in Marseille on May 8. In the port of this seaside city, founded by Greek settlers, a ceremony to welcome the flame is expected to be attended by up to 150,000 participants. Marseille, as the host of the sailing events, is preparing to showcase its rich cultural and historical heritage, which perfectly complements the Olympic tradition.