Olympia

Olympia is a Greek name associated with Olympus, the mountain identified in mythology as the home of the gods. It also recalls Olympia, the separate sanctuary in the Peloponnese where the ancient Olympic Games were held. The mountain and the sanctuary are distinct places, even though both belong to the same broad Greek religious and cultural world.

The name has notable modern bearers, including actress Olympia Dukakis and American politician Olympia Snowe. Édouard Manet’s painting Olympia supplies another important artistic association. For parents considering it, the name can connect with Greek heritage, classical mythology, athletics, or art. Its substantial history helps distinguish it from a recent invention designed simply to resemble Olivia.