The Paris 2024 Olympic torch lit up in a traditional ceremony this Tuesday, marking the countdown to the games starting on July 26th. Greek actress Mary Mina played the role of high priestess, using a backup flame because of cloudy skies. This torch will eventually light the benevolent Olympic flame in Paris at the opening ceremony.

The flame represents friendship and peace, linking the modern Olympics to their ancient roots since the 1936 Berlin Games. After starting its journey in Greece, it will pass through historic sites for 11 days before reaching Paris. But what happens to the flame after the Paris games?

The fate of the Paris Olympic flame – a resplendent paragon of tradition and hope

Throughout the duration of the Olympic Games, the torch remains ablaze. A standby flame, kindled from the same sacred embers as the primary torch, stands ready should the need arise to rekindle the spirit of the Games. However, once the final medal is awarded and the cheers of victory fade into memory, the Olympic torch meets its end. In a somewhat anticlimactic conclusion, the flame that once symbolized unity is extinguished, signaling the close of yet another chapter in Olympic history.

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As the flame fades, the host nation breathes a collective sigh of relief, while the torch’s journey concludes, paving the way for the next host to take up the mantle of Olympic anticipation. In the aftermath of the Games, anticipation wanes until the next torch relay ignites the world’s excitement once more. However, the origins of this ritual extend far beyond the modern era, reaching back to the venerable practices of the Greeks.

From old beliefs to new discoveries, the journey of flames

In antiquity, fire held profound significance for the Greeks, woven intricately into their religious customs. At the hallowed grounds of Olympia, where the inaugural Olympic Games took place, an eternal flame flickered upon the altar of the revered goddess Hestia. This sacred fire, symbolizing purity and divine blessing, found resonance not only in the temple of Hestia but also in the sanctuaries dedicated to Zeus and Hera.

Yesterday, amidst the remnants of a temple venerating Hera, the modern rendition of the flame-lighting ceremony unfolds, with a skilled actress assuming the role of high priestess. Employing a parabolic dish, reminiscent of ancient Greek techniques, she harnesses the sun’s rays to kindle the flame, ensuring its continuity even under overcast skies. The journey of the flame embarks upon a symbolic odyssey, commencing from its genesis in Olympia. Enshrined within an urn, it begins its pilgrimage to the Coubertin Grove, paying homage to Pierre de Coubertin, the visionary behind the rejuvenation of the Olympic movement.

As the flame passes from bearer to bearer, traversing the historic landscapes of Greece, it heralds the forthcoming spectacle of unity and athleticism. On April 26, amidst the grandeur of Athens’ Panathenaic Stadium, the flame transitions into French custody, marking the commencement of its transcontinental voyage. Guided by tradition and meticulous planning, the flame’s luminous passage illuminates the collective spirit of nations.