The Olympic torch was carried by actor Jackie Chan through the ruins of Pompeii on Monday, marking the start of the relay for the Milan Cortina Winter Games.
Jackie Chan’s Moment in Pompeii
Jackie Chan walked the ancient streets of Pompeii, the city that was buried by ash and lava when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. The actor’s presence drew attention from both locals and visitors, who gathered to watch the torchlight move through the archaeological site.
Scenic Route Along the Amalfi Coast
After Pompeii, the relay’s route extended to the picturesque Amalfi Coast. The beautiful coastline offered a striking backdrop as the torch made its way toward the next destination.
Naples: A Pause for Christmas
On Tuesday, the torch will be carried by Italian soccer standouts Fabio Cannavaro and Ciro Ferrara through their native city of Naples. The relay is scheduled to pause for Christmas, giving the city a brief break before the torch continues.
The Relay’s Grand Scale
The entire relay covers 12,000 kilometers, which is nearly 7,500 miles. It will wind through all 110 Italian provinces, showcasing the country’s diverse regions.
Final Destination: Milan’s San Siro Stadium
The torch will arrive at Milan’s San Siro Stadium for the opening ceremony of the Winter Games on February 6. The stadium will host the first official Olympic event of the 2026 Games.
A Journey Through History and Modernity
The torch’s path from Pompeii to Milan blends ancient history with contemporary sporting culture. Each stop highlights Italy’s rich heritage and its role in the global Olympic movement.
The Significance of the Relay
The relay’s route, including stops in Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and Milan, demonstrates the Olympic tradition of connecting past and present. The journey underscores the unity of the Italian provinces in celebrating the Games.
The Role of Famous Athletes
Fabio Cannavaro and Ciro Ferrara, both renowned for their soccer careers, will carry the torch in Naples. Their participation adds a personal touch to the relay, linking national sports heroes to the Olympic spirit.
The Impact on Local Communities
Each province the relay passes through experiences a surge of tourism and community pride. The torch’s presence brings international attention to local traditions and cultural sites.
The Logistics of a 12,000-Kilometer Relay
Covering 12,000 kilometers requires careful planning and coordination among organizers, local authorities, and volunteers. The relay’s schedule ensures that the torch moves smoothly from one province to the next.
Celebrating the Milan Cortina Winter Games
The Milan Cortina Winter Games, scheduled for 2026, will feature athletes from around the world competing in winter sports. The torch relay is a ceremonial precursor to these competitions.
A Symbol of Unity
The torch’s journey across Italy symbolizes unity among the 110 provinces. It also reflects the shared enthusiasm for the upcoming Winter Games.
Key Takeaways
- Jackie Chan carried the Olympic torch through Pompeii on Monday.
- The route passes the Amalfi Coast and pauses for Christmas in Naples.
- The relay covers 12,000 kilometers and ends at Milan’s San Siro Stadium on Feb. 6.
The torch relay’s blend of historic sites and modern sporting venues highlights Italy’s pivotal role in the 2026 Winter Games. The journey from Pompeii to Milan will be remembered as a powerful celebration of culture, sport, and national pride.
