Permanent Exhibition

Overview

The Permanent Exhibition at The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland, stands as the official global home to the world's most extensive collection of Olympic heritage. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva, this renowned cultural institution offers an immersive journey through the history and spirit of the Olympic Games. It houses a vast array of artifacts, with over 10,000 items in its collection, and engages visitors through more than 200 interactive screens. The exhibition is thoughtfully structured across three distinct floors, each dedicated to a major theme: the 'Olympic World', the 'Olympic Games', and the 'Olympic Spirit'.

A visit to the Permanent Exhibition allows guests to discover priceless memorabilia, relive iconic moments, and connect with the enduring values of Olympism, making it a must-see for anyone interested in sports, history, and culture.

History & Cultural Background

The Olympic Museum, and by extension its Permanent Exhibition, was formally established on June 23, 1993. The vision for such a significant institution came to fruition under the initiative of Juan Antonio Samaranch, who was then the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The deeper roots of the museum's concept trace back to Pierre de Coubertin, the visionary who spearheaded the revival of the modern Olympic Games. Lausanne itself holds a special place in Olympic history, having served as the home of the IOC for over a century, cementing its status as the 'Olympic Capital'.

After nearly two decades of welcoming visitors, the museum underwent an extensive 23-month renovation between 2012 and 2013, reopening with state-of-the-art facilities on December 21, 2013, to enhance the visitor experience. Its significance was recognized early on when it was honored as the European Museum of the Year in 1995. The museum perfectly encapsulates the spirit of sportsmanship and international camaraderie that the Olympic Games foster, bringing nations and individuals together through shared athletic pursuit.

What Makes It Special

The Permanent Exhibition distinguishes itself through its highly interactive and emotionally resonant presentation of Olympic history. It offers visitors the unique opportunity to relive some of the greatest Olympic moments through numerous interactive displays and over 1,000 video clips of events and athletes, accessible at individual viewing stations.

One of the exhibition's most captivating features is the comprehensive display of Olympic torches, showcasing a torch from every edition of the Games since 1936. Visitors can also marvel at genuine sporting equipment used by legendary athletes and view the evolution of gold, silver, and bronze medals from every Olympic Games since 1896. For a truly immersive experience, interactive activities allow guests to metaphorically 'slip into the skin of an athlete' or challenge their own balance, agility, and mental skills, simulating aspects of Olympic training.

Beyond the indoor exhibits, the surrounding Olympic Park adds another layer of allure, featuring a dignified statue of Pierre de Coubertin and a cauldron where the Olympic flame burns continuously, symbolizing the perpetual spirit of the Games.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The journey through the Permanent Exhibition begins on the third floor, dedicated to the 'Olympic World', where visitors delve into the history of the ancient Olympic Games and trace the fascinating rebirth of the modern Games in the 19th century. The second floor, focusing on the 'Olympic Games', celebrates the athletes themselves, showcasing sporting equipment, and introducing the Youth Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. Finally, the 'Olympic Spirit' section provides a profound insight into what it truly means to be an Olympian, exploring life within the Olympic Village and the intense emotions associated with victory and defeat, all conveyed through compelling video narratives.

Adding a delightful touch, visitors can use lockers within the museum, each bearing the name of a famous Olympian, inviting a personal connection to the heroes of the Games. Outside, on the 100-meter track in the Olympic Park, an exciting interactive experience allows visitors to 'race' against the speed of Usain Bolt, simulated by light beams. The museum's elevated location provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the majestic Alps, which can be enjoyed from the museum grounds or the TOM Café on the top floor, renowned for its inspiring vista.

Visitor Perspective

The Permanent Exhibition is widely lauded as a compelling destination for both fervent sports enthusiasts and those with a keen interest in history and culture. Its engaging and interactive nature ensures an enriching experience for visitors of all ages, making it a particularly popular choice for families.

The recommended duration for a visit to fully appreciate the exhibits is approximately 1.5 hours. To enhance the experience, complimentary audioguides are available in nine languages via smartphone, offering deeper insights into the collections. Beyond the interior, the museum is integrated into the beautiful Olympic Park, which invites exploration with its artistic sculptures and tranquil gardens, extending the visitor's engagement with the Olympic ideal into the picturesque surroundings.