The shape of this torch is inspired by an olive leaf, from a tree traditionally found in the countries bordering the Mediterranean region. But if there is one city for which the olive tree is important, it is Athens: this tree is the symbol of the city, offered by the goddess Athena to its inhabitants during her dispute with Poseidon over the possession of Attica.

However, other reasons drove Andreas Varostos, the designer of the Athens Games torch, to use the olive leaf as a source of inspiration. Firstly, these leaves formed the basis of the crown awarded to Olympic champions in Antiquity. Secondly, the olive branch is rooted in the collective imagination as a strong symbol of peace and hope.