Challenge is now on to ensure Beijing's Olympic stadiam avoid the costly legacy of buildings in Athens that fell into disuse.
With a thundering display of fireworks over the Bird's Nest stadium, Beijing unveils a magical evening to signal the start of the Games.
High-level delegation of politicians and sports stars attend opening ceremony for the village, which will house 16,000 people during the Games.
Beijing's avant-garde National Stadium has become the icon of the 2008 Olympics - and much more.
Organisers have built or refurbished 37 venues, 31 of them in Beijing, which will stage the 28 sports during the August 8-24 Games.
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