Olympic torch for Rio games lit at ancient Greek site

21 April 2016 Europe

The flame for the Olympic Games in Brazil has been lit in southern Greece.

An actor performing the role of high priestess lit the torch by using the sun's rays.

The torch will be taken by various runners on an international relay that will culminate at the opening ceremony in Rio de Janeiro on 5 August.

The ritual was established 80 years ago for the Berlin Games, based on a ceremony in Ancient Olympia where games were held for more than 1,000 years.

Actor Katerina Lehou, who lit the torch, offered a mock prayer to Apollo, the old Greek god of light and music, at Thursday's ceremony.

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