Ancient History about the Olympics

More than 2,700 years ago the Olympic Games began in Olympia, Greece. Originally the games were a part of a religious festival. Today, many consider the beginning of the Olympic Games in 1896, when in fact the history reaches much further back. The modern day inspiration of the games was formed by the historical games that began in 776 BC.

The games were held to honor Zeus, the king of the gods. He is the god of sky and thunder in Greek mythology. Every four years the at Olympia, the extravagant festival took place. Greeks from all over came to join and take part in the competition. Although Greeks traveled great distances to visit the games, the games were special and not open to everyone.The games were specific to men, boys and unmarried girls. Married women were not allowed into the Olympic Games. Any women caught sneaking in were punished. Although, women could own horses in the chariot race. Unmarried women had their own festival at Olympia every four years. This was the Heraia, held in honor of Hera, wife of Zeus. Unmarried women were allowed to compete in running races. Winners were awarded crowns of sacred olive branches, this was the same for men. As a rule, Greek women did not go in for sport, unless they were Spartans.People pitched tents and slept on rough grounds just to be a part of the event. Of course, the more important visitors and athletes stayed in hotels. The stadium could seat about 50,000 people. The entire facility was hot and overcrowded, and drinking water was scarce. This didn't stop people coming though!

The final part of the games included a feast. Oxen were roasted in a giant barbecue. There was much happening in the area beyond the games, there were traders initiating business, entertainers juggling and acrobats performed. Frequently, politicians made speeches to the crowds.

Obviously the athletes were some of the most important people at the events. Each of the athletes had personal trainers. Before the athletes were able to enter into the games, the athlete needed to swear an oath to Zeus that he had been in training for ten months. The athlete would have to go to the Bouleuterion building to do this. This oath was sworn in front of ten Hellenodikai. These men were the organizers of the games. This oath was done in front of Zeus (the statue). The statue was made entirely of ivory and gold. When finished it sat in the temple on an elaborate throne along with sculptures and paintings of Greek myths and legends. Zeus was the most celebrated statue of ancient times because of its greatness, charm and worth.

One of the most gruesome events was thought to be the pankration or all-in wrestling. Biting and poking people's was officially banned although, some competitors did both. This was because there were hardly any rules. This event was extremely popular. Another big event was boxing. Boxing was also considered pretty extreme. The fighters wore leather gloves and boxers were allowed to continue hitting their opponents even after their opponent was down on the ground. Cheating was highly condemned and punished. Anyone that was caught cheating or bribing had to pay for a bronze statue of Zeus as punishment.