It is the area where the Olympic Games were born. Right up to this day, the Olympic Games are idolized and are an inspiration to people all over the world. The Prefecture of Elea in the Peloponnese looks like an amazing puzzle; the natural landscape is made up of so many different images. These tell a story of its century-old history. The location and natural wealth of the area all contributed to its development, in both trade and culture. Although it has been inhabited since pre-historic times, it was only during the 8th century B.C. that it flourished, due to the great reputation of the Olympian Sanctuary. Many conquerered this land over the centuries (Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Ottomans), right up to its liberation in 1825. The natural landscape is characterized by the many sandy coasts, stunning beaches and most impressive pine forests. There are valleys with rushing streams, wetlands and thermal baths. The picturesque villages, the ancient oak tree forest of Foloi, ancient places of worship and Sanctuaries, as well as Byzantine monasteries, all make up this magnificent area.