The Rome torch was developed by Amedeo Maiuri, known for his archeological studies of Pompei, and he took inspiration from the elevations and frescos of the monuments of Ancient Rome and Greece representing torches. This torch, built by Curtisa (Bologna), is innovative in comparison to the last four editions. It represents the two poles of Mediterranean civilization: Athens and Rome. The torch, in fact, in his route between Athens and Rome, made a stop in important archeological sites such as Corinto, Megara, Elussina, Crotone, Metaponto, and Taranto. The torch was made in bronzed alluminium and weighs 580 gr. The fuel was made of resinous substances contained in capsules. Thanks to the huge legacy of the hosting town, these Games witnessed a close union between sport and culture. The marble stadium, the Baths of Caracalla, the Albano lake and the triumphal arch of Constantine have been the theatre of the Olympic competitions. US athlete Cassius Marcellus Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, first gained international prominence by winning the light-heavyweight gold medal. Legendary were the three golds of Sante Gaiardoni in cycling and the one of Nino Benvenuti in boxing. With a total of 13 golds, 10 silvers and 13 bronzes Italy earned the third place in the medals collection of the XVII Summer Olympic Games. The Rome Games were the last in which South Africa was allowed to participate before a forced stop of 32 years – until 1992 – decided by the International Olympic Committee due to the intolerable racist policies of the South African government.