Athens’ Panathenaic Stadium, an all-marble venue that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, is undergoing its first comprehensive cleaning in more than a century. The stadium, nicknamed "Kallimarmaro" for its beautiful marble, is the ceremonial send-off point for the Olympic flame, including for the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Games.
The cleaning process involves low-pressure water spray lances and vacuum systems to remove accumulated dirt and organic material from the stadium's 47 tiers. Conservators are carefully cleaning the marble, which is the same material used on the Acropolis, to preserve its historic integrity. The effort aims not to make the stadium entirely white but to reveal its original appearance and gain a better understanding of the monument's condition.
Crews are also using steam to remove stains, including those from chewing gum, high heels, and soft drinks, which have discolored the marble over time. The stadium, built into a natural ravine, has a history that dates back to ancient Greek athletic contests before its revival for the 1896 Olympics.
Since its reconstruction, the Panathenaic Stadium has hosted various events, including fashion shows, concerts, and sporting competitions, as well as patriotic ceremonies. It remains a popular tourist destination.
In addition to the cleaning, the stadium is receiving upgrades to its track, lighting, and support facilities. This project is privately funded by a shipping company and overseen by the Hellenic Olympic Committee, with guidance from the Ministry of Culture. The work is scheduled to continue through 2026. Current efforts are focused on the stadium's curved end to prepare for an upcoming Olympic torch-passing ceremony on September 10, which will mark the start of the journey for the Dakar Youth Olympics in Senegal. The Dakar Games will be the first Olympic competition hosted in Africa.