ATHENSMARATHON

In 490 BC, the Persian Empire launched an invasion of Greece, landing their forces on the plain of Marathon, about 40 kilometers from Athens. Against overwhelming odds, the Athenian army achieved a stunning victory that would change the course of Western civilization.

According to legend, a messenger named Pheidippidesran from the battlefield to Athens to announce the victory, crying "Nike!" (Victory!) before collapsing and dying. This legendary run inspired the modern marathon.

When the modern Olympic Games were revived in 1896, the marathon was included as a tribute to this ancient story. The race from Marathon to Athens became the signature event of the Games, and Greek runner Spyridon Louis became a national hero by winning it.

Today, the Athens Authentic Marathon follows the original route, starting in the town of Marathon and finishing in the magnificent Panathenaic Stadium—the same marble stadium where the 1896 Olympic marathon concluded.

The course is challenging, with significant elevation changes including the infamous climb between kilometers 10 and 31. But for thousands of runners each year, completing the original marathon route is a pilgrimage—a chance to connect with the sport's ancient origins.