Interactive History of the Olympic Games Unveiled at the National Hellenic Museum

Digital book illuminates the story of the Olympics

CHICAGO, IL – History comes alive at the National Hellenic Museum, where a new interactive book gives visitors a hands-on view of the Olympic Games from its ancient roots through its modern revival.

Unveiled on Monday Aug. 9, during the Rio 2016 Games, the new digital device will be an exciting addition to the Museum’s exhibition Olympic Revival: The 1896 Olympic Games, which showcases images by Albert Meyer, the official photographer of the 1896 Olympic games, providing an intimate glimpse of the events and athletes.

“The interactive book uses engaging photos and text to examine concepts of competition and excellence in ancient Greece and how the Olympics created unity within city-states,” said Rena Lee, Director of Museum Experience.

“The book also explores the modern Olympics, the impact of the civil rights movement, women in sports, the Paralympics, and how the Olympics foster global peace.”

Photo 1: Olympic Revival exhibition at the National Hellenic Museum.

Olympic Revival: The 1896 Olympic Games, on loan from the renowned Benaki Museum in Athens, features photographs of the first U.S. Olympic team; 14 pioneers who went to Athens amid complete indifference from the United States and stunned the world by winning 11 championships, essentially creating the U.S. Olympic movement.

Photo 2: Robert Garrett took gold for shot put and discus.

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Located in Chicago’s Greektown, the sleek 40,000-square-foot National Hellenic Museum at 333. S. Halsted St. is both contemporary and timeless, connecting all generations—past, present and future—to the rich heritage of Greek history, culture, art and the Greek American experience. The National Hellenic Museum, previously known as the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center, has been fulfilling this mission since 1983.

For more information, visit http://www.nationalhellenicmuseum.org or call 312-655-1234.