During the flame lighting ceremony, the Greek High Priestess Katerina left a deep impression on us. She was elegant, graceful, and had a resonant voice, as noble as a goddess in Athenian mythology. Who is she? Does the white gown she wears have a rich cultural background like the Chinese qipao or Tang suit? What kind of woman can become a High Priestess?
As the absolute protagonist of the Olympic flame collection, becoming the High Priestess for the flame lighting ceremony is a lifelong pursuit for many Greek actresses. However, not everyone can become a High Priestess; there are many strict requirements to become one.
According to tradition, every High Priestess is selected from actresses of the National Theatre of Greece or from outstanding graduates of the drama school affiliated with the National Theatre of Greece. At a glance, one can see that she is a typical ancient Greek beauty.
Physical requirements for the High Priestess: There is no hard standard for height, but the average height of past High Priestesses is 1.74 meters. Eye standard: deep, large eyes. Nose standard: a straight, prominent bridge of the nose. Lip standard: sexy lips. Other standards: under 40 years old; a resonant and beautiful voice; excellent psychological quality; a fit body; elegant demeanor; noble temperament.
The vocal requirements for the High Priestess are also very high because, during the flame lighting ceremony, before lighting the flame, the High Priestess needs to pray to the sun god Apollo and recite the invocation, so the High Priestess's voice must be resonant, magnetic, and infectious.
The robe worn by the Greek High Priestess is actually a chiton, a traditional garment of the ancient Greeks. Usually, knee-length versions were worn by men, while full-length versions were worn by women. When wearing such a garment, people usually tie a long belt around their body, which can be tied under the chest (called "high-waisted") or at the waist (called "low-waisted"), and sometimes both methods are used simultaneously.
The long gown worn by the High Priestess is created based on sculptures and murals unearthed by archaeologists. This linen fabric is now produced by only one specialized research institute in Greece. Its weaving density is no different from that of ancient Greece, and it has a thick, draping feel when worn, which is not only elegant but also very comfortable.