On December 29, 1991, the Olympic flame made a stop at the Hotoie Park in Amiens as part of its journey to the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville. This event marked France’s third time hosting the Winter Olympics. The flame arrived in Paris from Olympia on December 13 and traveled through various parts of France for 57 days before reaching Albertville on February 8, 1992.

During its journey, the flame was carefully protected and fueled. Special suits and jackets were provided to torchbearers and technicians, with the flame being transferred among four miner’s lamps every eight hours to keep it burning during the relay events. Security measures for the flame were also stringent, with eight riot police officers providing protection throughout the day.

Throughout the relay in the Somme, 68 relay runners participated, each running a kilometer with the flame. The flame’s entourage made its way through different municipalities, drawing massive crowds and creating an atmosphere similar to the excitement of the Tour de France.

The emotional response from the crowd was remarkable at each town the flame visited, and the enthusiasm shown by the people was heartwarming. The flame was finally lit at Amiens’s Hotoie Park by 15-year-old Philippe Thomas, who emphasized the event’s ability to bring nations together during challenging times.

Following the event, the flame continued its journey, traveling through 2,000 different towns and cities during its 57-day tour. Looking ahead to the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the flame will once again travel through France for over two months, covering 66 stages before reaching its final destination.

The 1991 journey of the Olympic flame was a remarkable event that brought people together and kindled the spirit of unity and sportsmanship. Its historic significance continues to inspire us as we eagerly anticipate Paris 2024.