The Ancient Olympic Games
Thematic Galleries (1) & (2) and Function Place,
Hong Kong Heritage Museum 03 August 2008 - 24 November 2008
The Ancient Olympic Games Exhibition, jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Trustees of the British Museum, takes us on a journey through space and time to the ancient world of Olympia, where history and legends about the ancient Olympic Games reveal the relationship between the ancient and the modern games. Presented with the support of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, this exhibition is a major cultural event specially designed for Hong Kong citizens to complement the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and the equestrian events that are to be held in Hong Kong.
The British Museum has selected more than 110 invaluable items for the exhibition, including sculptures, pottery, goldware, bronzeware, coins and medals, and has for the first time allowed the world-renowned marble sculpture The Discus Thrower to come to Hong Kong, where visitors are able to view and appreciate the beauty of this treasured masterpiece. The exhibition introduces the sporting venues of ancient Olympia, the different events held at the ancient games as well as the ceremonies honouring the winners and associated religious activities. It also traces the development of the modern Olympic Games and reviews the history of the participation of China and Hong Kong in this festival of sport. Thanks to the generous funding of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, an education corner has been set up, while an education kit is also available and a variety of activities are being organised, all of which are designed to enhance people's understanding of the ancient Olympic Games and allow them to experience the revelry of the most significant sporting event of ancient times. Exhibit Highlights
Other Past Exhibitions |