Munich

The Krupp steelworks, known for producing the 1936 Berlin torches, created a torch with a circular base that features an engraved crown of rays representing light, freshness, and generosity. To prepare for this edition, I traveled by land through Bulgaria, Romania, Yugoslavia, and Austria before reaching Munich. Along with being lit in a large cauldron, I was split into two flames to be taken to competition venues outside the city. It was exciting to watch the basketball final, a showdown between the eternal rivals USSR and USA: in the midst of the Cold War, the heart-stopping final shocked millions. However, the most significant shock of the games was the terrorist attack that occurred on September 25th, which brought the Olympic village and the entire world to a standstill. Tragically, 17 people lost their lives in the attack, including 11 athletes, 5 terrorists, and a policeman.