Every year, the second or third Sunday of November is a day for more than 43,000 runners to participate and 80,000 visitors to gather at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.
The Authentic Marathon was established in 1982 and has attracted runners from all over Greece and abroad since then.
According to legend, the Athenian messenger Phiedippides ran the same route to bring the news of victory. 2,500 years later, everyone can follow the hero's footsteps, running a distance of 5 km, 10 km or 42 km. The outstanding Olympic Stadium is the finish line and leaves an impression even on veteran runners.
Practical info
When does the Athens Authentic Marathon typically occur?
Athens Authentic Marathon is usually held annually on the second or third Sunday of November. The forthcoming occasion of the marathon is on November 12, 2023. Show more
What is the area where the Athens Authentic Marathon runs through?
Athens Authentic Marathon is held in Athens, Greece, encompassing a 42 km distance from Marathon, an ancient city, to the Panathenaic Stadium. This stadium held the initial modern Olympics inauguration in 1896. Show more
What inspired the Athens Authentic Marathon?
Phiedippides, a messenger from Athens, is the inspiration behind Athens Authentic Marathon as he ran from Marathon to Athens to report the triumph of Greeks over Persians in 490 BC. First modern Marathons held in 1896 were also a tribute to Phiedippides. The Athens Authentic Marathon started in 1982 and is now a notable celebration attracting over 43,000 runners and 80,000 visitors globally. Show more
How many runners participate in the Athens Authentic Marathon on average?
Athens Authentic Marathon welcomes around 43,000 runners from all over the world every year, making it one of the world's largest and well-liked marathons. In addition, the event draws about 80,000 visitors, including the participants' relatives, friends, and tourists, to Athens, who come to visit the city's famous cultural landmarks. Show more
What are some of the remarkable attractions located in Athens, besides the Athens Authentic Marathon?
Athens is a stunning city filled with history, nature, and art. Visitors can visit the vestiges of ancient Athens, including the Parthenon and the Acropolis, explore museums such as the National Archaeological Museum, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, or wander through the charming neighborhoods of Plaka. Other popular sites in Athens are the Lycabettus Hill, Syntagma Square, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Show more
