25 Things to Know About The Olympic Museum

The Olympic Museum is an international museum dedicated to celebrating the Olympic Games' history, cultural impact, and values. It showcases artefacts, multimedia installations, and interactive exhibits that bring the spirit of the Olympics to life for visitors of all ages.

It is located in Lausanne, Switzerland, along the scenic shores of Lac Léman. Lausanne is known as the Olympic Capital and is also the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, making it a fitting location for the museum.

The museum officially opened its doors to the public in 1993. Since then, it has welcomed millions of visitors from around the world, offering insights into both the ancient Olympic Games and the modern international event we know today.

The museum is managed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the governing body for the Olympic Movement worldwide. The IOC plays an integral role in the museum's operations and curates the exhibits to reflect the spirit and values of the Olympics.

The museum primarily focuses on the history of the Olympics, starting from their origins in ancient Greece, moving through the revival of the modern Games, and up to present-day events. It also explores the values of Olympism, such as excellence, friendship, and respect.

The Olympic Museum holds a vast collection of over 10,000 Olympic artefacts, including medals, torches, uniforms, and equipment. It’s one of the world’s most comprehensive collections related to the Olympics, spanning multiple decades and offering rare glimpses into the lives of athletes and the evolution of the Games.

Yes, the museum features several permanent exhibitions spread across three main floors. These exhibitions cover themes such as the history of the Olympic Games, significant Olympic symbols, and memorable moments in Olympic history, offering visitors a deep understanding of the Games' evolution and legacy.

The museum displays a wide array of artefacts, including Olympic medals from various years, torches used in the Olympic torch relays, uniforms worn by famous athletes, and equipment from iconic sporting events. Each item is carefully preserved to provide a tangible connection to the history of the Games.

Yes, one of the museum’s exhibits focuses on the ancient origins of the Olympics in Greece, showing how the Games began as religious and athletic festivals. It explores ancient Greek customs and includes artefacts that highlight the events and values of these early competitions.

Among the most popular items are Olympic torches from each torch relay, iconic gold medals, historical sporting equipment, and personal items from famous athletes. Visitors particularly enjoy seeing the progression of torch designs and the variety of medals from different Games.

Yes, the Olympic Museum has several interactive displays that allow visitors to experience different Olympic sports through simulations and virtual reality. These exhibits engage visitors by letting them test their skills, explore various sports, and experience the athletic journey in a hands-on way.

Absolutely. The Olympic Museum includes an extensive collection of Olympic-themed art, with sculptures, paintings, and photography celebrating athletic achievements and the spirit of competition. Many works reflect the energy, dedication, and artistry involved in sport.

Yes, the museum has beautifully landscaped gardens featuring outdoor sculptures that represent the Olympic spirit and athletes in motion. These sculptures offer visitors a chance to enjoy art in a tranquil, natural setting overlooking Lac Léman.

Yes, the museum hosts rotating temporary exhibitions that focus on specific aspects of the Olympics, sports, or international cultures. These exhibits change regularly, providing visitors with fresh insights and diverse perspectives on sports and Olympic history.

The museum offers a range of engaging, family-friendly activities and exhibits designed especially for children, including hands-on interactive displays and games that make learning about the Olympics fun and accessible for young visitors.

Yes, a dedicated section explores the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect, showing how the Games promote peace, unity, and a spirit of fair competition. This area highlights the cultural and social impact of the Olympic Movement worldwide.

Certainly! The museum showcases profiles and achievements of some of the most iconic Olympic athletes in history, from ancient to modern times. Through multimedia exhibits, visitors can learn about their backgrounds, training, and memorable moments.

Yes, the Olympic Museum is well-equipped to host school groups, offering guided tours and educational programmes tailored to students of various ages. These programmes focus on Olympic history, values, and the importance of sport in education.

Yes, the museum has a restaurant, which is located on the top floor and offers a stunning view of Lac Léman. The café serves a variety of international dishes, and its atmosphere reflects the Olympic theme.

Yes, audio guides are available in multiple languages, allowing visitors to experience the museum at their own pace and providing additional information on exhibits and artefacts for a more enriched visit.

Yes, the museum has a gift shop where visitors can purchase Olympic-themed memorabilia, including souvenirs, books, clothing, and collectables that celebrate the legacy of the Games.

The Olympic Museum hosts various events throughout the year, including workshops, lectures, film screenings, and exhibitions celebrating global sporting events and promoting discussions on sport and society.

Ticket prices for the Olympic Museum vary depending on age and visitor category. Standard adult tickets typically cost around CHF 20. There are discounts for students, seniors, and young people, with children under 15 eligible for free entry. The museum also offers special rates for groups and school visits. For the latest pricing and any seasonal offers, it’s best to check the museum’s official website before visiting.

The Olympic Museum is fully accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair access, lifts, and facilities to accommodate all visitors comfortably, ensuring an inclusive experience.

A typical visit to the Olympic Museum lasts around two to three hours, but many visitors spend more time exploring the exhibitions, outdoor sculptures, and interactive displays at their own pace.