The ceremony to collect the flame at the Temple of Hera began in 1936 when the first torch relay appeared in the Olympics. The Temple of Hera is the oldest temple in Greece. During the rehearsal, the High Priestess and her Priestesses enter the Ancient Stadium bearing the just collected Olympic Flame.

Another rehearsal is taking place for the Greek ancient dance, specially designed for the Beijing Olympics torch lighting ceremony. The dance imitates the ancient Olympic sports event and involves six actors.

The rehearsal to collect the flame has taken place at the Temple of Hera to prepare for the the Ritual of the Olympic torch lighting. (Photo: sina.com) (CCTV March 24, 2008)

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