Athens begins century-long marble restoration of historic Panathenaic Stadium

Athens has started the inaugural comprehensive cleaning of its marble Panathenaic Stadium, a venue that has hosted marathon runners, concerts and the first modern Olympic competitions. The restoration, which uses gentle water sprays and vacuum systems, seeks to remove accumulated grime and organic layers while preserving the historic white marble that matches the Acropolis stone. Steam devices are being employed to eliminate darkened chewing-gum spots, and staff are tackling stains from high heels and soft drinks.

Senior conservator Dimitris Selemis explained that the goal is not to make the stone uniformly white but to reveal its original condition for better study. The effort, financed by a private shipping company and managed by the Hellenic Olympic Committee with guidance from Culture Ministry experts, also adds a new running track, modern lighting and upgraded support structures. Work is focused on the stadium’s curved “sling” section ahead of the torch-passing ceremony on Sept. 10 for the Dakar Youth Olympics, which will be attended by IOC President Kirsty Coventry.