Spyridon Louis

Σπυρίδων Λούης

["Marathon Runner", "Water Carrier", "Olympic Pioneer"]

Born Jan 12, 1873

Marousi (Athens), Greece

Passed Away Mar 26, 1940 Marousi (Athens), Greece

Lifespan 67 years old

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Notice / Correction

"I ran not for gold or glory, but for the sacred honor of Hellas and the memory of our ancestors."

Archival Overview

Greek water carrier who became an eternal national hero by winning the first modern Olympic Marathon at the 1896 Athens Games, reviving the ancient spirit of Greek athletics.

Biographical Record

Spyridon Louis (1873–1940) delivered fresh mineral water across Athens by foot before entering the Olympic trial race on the urging of his former military commander. On April 10, 1896, seventeen runners set off from Marathon towards the Panathenaic Stadium along the historic route run by Pheidippides.

Pacing himself methodically while competitors collapsed in the Mediterranean heat, Louis surged into the lead at the village of Ambelokipi. As he entered the packed Panathenaic Stadium to the roar of 100,000 spectators, Crown Prince Constantine and Prince George ran alongside him across the finish line to claim historic gold.

Key Life Milestones

1896

Olympic Marathon Victory in Athens

Won the inaugural modern Olympic marathon in 2 hours, 58 minutes, and 50 seconds before a jubilant nation.

1936

Honored at the Berlin Olympic Games

Invited as guest of honor to present an olive branch from Olympia to the Olympic organizing committee.

Memorial Guestbook & Tributes

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Marousi Municipal Cemetery
Marousi (Athens), Greece

                         GPS: 38.0536, 23.8058                    

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