Katakolon is gateway to ancient Olympia, the chief sanctuary of Zeus. In this wooded valley the original Olympic Games between Greek city states began in 776 BC. Olympia was a sacred precinct built for the quadrennial games dedicated to Zeus during which all hostilities were ceased in the name of athletic competition. Contestants met to race, wrestle and sing for the prized olive wreath from the sacred tree by the Temple of Zeus. Much was destroyed when the games were outlawed as a pagan festival in 393 AD, but visitors can still see the Temple of Zeus and the stadium. The Archaeological Museum houses some exquisite sculptures, including the famous Niki "Winged Victory" by Palonios, "Hermes" by Praxiteles and "Apollo" from the Temple of Zeus.