On Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 26, Ancient Olympia became the heart of a historic moment for sport and Olympism as the Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Games took place.
Among the distinguished guests was Pavlos de Grece, son of the late former King Constantine of Greece, drew particular attention. Invited by the Hellenic Olympic Committee, he shared the moment with his followers on Instagram. Due to severe weather, the ceremony was moved indoors to the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Olympia, where the Flame began its symbolic journey to Italy.
High Priestess Mary Mina once again led the ritual, performed before the 5th century BC iconic statue of Nike by Paionios. The event gathered prominent figures including the President of the Hellenic Republic Konstantinos Tasoulas, IOC President Kirsty Coventry, and Hellenic Olympic Committee President Isidoros Kouvelos.
Pavlos de Grece participated among the Priestesses and Kouroi in a choreography inspired by Artemis Ignatiou, with musical direction by Dimitris Papadimitriou. In his post, he expressed gratitude to the Hellenic Olympic Committee and President Kouvelos, noting the honor of taking part in such a historic moment and reaffirming his pride in promoting the values of Olympism.
His presence carried an added historical resonance. As the son of former King Constantine—himself closely connected to Greek sport—Pavlos de Grece embodied a bridge between tradition and contemporary Greece. His participation underscored how cultural and athletic heritage continues to inspire new generations.
This year’s lighting ceremony offered not only a striking visual spectacle but a powerful link between past and present. With the Flame now on its way to Milano-Cortina 2026, its symbolism brings Olympism back into the global spotlight.
