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Paris 2024 Olympic Flame Lit, Begins 11-Day Journey Across Greece

Apr 17, 2024, 01:25 AM

The Olympic flame for the Paris 2024 Games was successfully lit in a ceremony in ancient Olympia, Greece, marking a significant milestone as the event approaches. Greek actress Mary Mina used a parabolic mirror and the sun's rays to ignite the torch, which will travel 5,000km across Greece carried by 600 torchbearers over 11 days. Despite cloudy conditions that required a backup flame, the ceremony proceeded, celebrating the upcoming Games, which symbolize peace and unity. Greek Olympic rowing champion Stefanos Ntouskos handed the flame to French swimmer Laure Manaudou, symbolizing international cooperation. The flame will eventually be handed over to Paris organizers in Athens and then make its way to France, signaling the start of the Games in 100 days. Additionally, the Mayors of Ancient Olympia, Ilida, and Sparta signed a declaration of the Olympic Truce, reinforcing the Games' role as a symbol of peace.