In 1991, the Spanish Olympic Academy celebrated the 30th anniversary of its foundation. It is the oldest International Olympic Academy, whose goals are focused on the spread and defence of the moral principles of the Olympic Games. Spanish Philately joined this event by releasing a commemorative stamp. The stamp features a bust of the philosopher Plato, who emphasized the outstanding role physical education plays in the development of men and women, a Greek amphora showing a young man running, and the logo of the Spanish Olympic Academy. The foundation of the International Olympic Academy (IOA) dates back to 1961 in the old city of Olympia (Greece), near the original stadium which was just unearthed thanks to the archaeological excavations carried out at that time. The idea of setting up a similar organization arose in Spain in 1968 and with the help of the President of the Spanish Olympic Committee, Juan Antonio Samaranch it was founded on November 25, 1968.

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