Special report:   2008 Olympic Games

 

Greek actress Maria Nafpliotou (R), playing the role of a high priestess, kindles a pot with the Olympic flame during the Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony in Olympia, Greece, March 24, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)  Photo Gallery>>>

Beijing Olympic flame lit in ancient Olympia

    OLYMPIA, Greece, March 24 (Xinhua) -- The Beijing Olympic flame was ignited in a traditional sun-ray ceremony on 11:45 on Monday at the Hera Temple of Ancient Olympia.

    Dark clouds over Olympia troubled Olympic flame lighting rehearsal parted at last Monday with a flawless torch lighting ceremony heralding the unprecedented torch relay. Full story