 The Olympic Games are a multi-sport event which takes place every two years alternating between the Summer and Olympic Winter Games. The earliest recorded Olympic Games were held in Olympia, in ancient Greece, in 776 B.C., and for more then 1,200 years, the Ancient Olympic Games were celebrated with festivals that had the power to stop wars and inspire worship of the most heroic athletes. The modern Olympic Movement started in 1896, with the objective of promoting international peace and understanding through sporting competition. The first modern Olympic Games were staged in Athens in 1896, while the first Olympic Winter Games were held in 1924. For the next 68 years, the Olympic Winter Games were held the same year as the Olympic Games. Lillehammer 1994, John Hancock's first Olympic Games, was the first Olympic Winter Games held in a different year from the Summer Games.
Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games, is in the western part of the Peloponnese which, according to Greek mythology. |
The oldest myth which concerns the beginning of the Olympic Games is that of Idaios Daktylos Herakles. |
The idea of a truce symbolises the spirit of the Ancient Olympic Games.
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The Olympic Movement offers hope for a better world and life through sport competition for all without discrimination. It also inspires the people of the world to achieve their personal dreams in sport and in life. The Games also celebrate the universal joy in effort through sport competition that is always intense, friendly and fair. (IOC)
Archaeological site at Olympia |
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