How the Olympic Flame became the greatest symbol of Olympism

Of all the symbols of the Olympic movement, the Torch Relay has become arguably the best known. Conveyed from Ancient Olympia to the Olympic Host city, it is designed to provide a link between the Games of Antiquity and modern Olympic sport. This article examines how the ritual was established and how it has developed into an important way in which to promote the Olympic movement. It highlights the importance of the key staging posts from the kindling of the Flame to the grand arrival at the Opening Ceremony to signal the start of the Games. There is also an examination of how the Relay has changed in character from a simple journey by the shortest geographical route into a much larger event which aims to engage as much of the host nation as possible.