The design of the torch was developed by Andreas Varotsos, industrial designer graduate in Rome. The geometry of the torch was studied to give the impression that the flame comes out directly from the arm of the torchbearer, and its shape resembles an olive leaf, symbol of Athens and universal icon of peace and freedom. The reference to the olive is also present in the predominant material, the wood; propane and butane were used for fuel. In the logo, the natural element is represented by the laurel crown, which rewarded the winners of the Olympics in Ancient Greece.

Everything stands on a blue background, symbol of the sky and the sea of Greece. 11.300 torchbearers carried the torch around the world, for 78.999 km. Almost 4 billion people followed the Games on television. Memorable the 6 golds of swimmer Michael Phelps and the race of the races in the legendary site of the marathon, where Stefano Baldini crossed the finishing line in the ancient stadium of Athens. The archery competitions were staged in the same Panathinaiko Stadium that was used for the 1896 Olympics. The Games were opened by President of Greece Kōnstantinos Stefanopoulos.