Greece Olympics has a very long history that dates back to the ancient era. Although, there is a lack of consent on the exact date of its beginning, according to the first written documents, Olympics in Greece, dates back to 776 BC. Greece Olympics was held in highest esteem among the four ancient athletic tournaments, held in the country. The three other ancient athletic meets of Greece included Nemean Games held at Argos, Pythian Games held at Delphi and Isthmian Games held at Corinth.
Olympics in Ancient Greece
Olympics in ancient Greece was held in Olympia city, to honor Zeus. It continued for a period of four days, held at an interval of four years during the summer. The Greece Olympics scaled new heights and reached its zenith during the period of 5th to 4th century B.C. However, later during the rule of Theodosius I of Rome, the event was taken off at the close of 4th century A.D. The Greeks held Olympics in high esteem. The contestants underwent rigorous training for a period of ten months. Initially, the ancient Greece Olympics featured only running. Later on other events like long run, boxing, armor foot race, chariot race and the pentathlon was added. Slaves, disgraced persons, women and foreigners were prohibited from participating in Olympics. Those who emerged victorious in the Olympics were honored by a wild olive crown. In their respective home towns, the winners were given several other gifts.
Modern Olympics in Greece
It has been roughly estimated that the modern
Olympics in Greece was held in Athens in the year 1896. The revival of Olympics is mainly accredited to the initiative taken by baron de Coubertin, who belonged to France. A number of new sports and games were added to those traditionally played. These included badminton, basketball, cycling, archery, kayaking, diving, fencing, swimming, sailing, soccer, gymnastics, volleyball, tennis, rowing, baseball, water polo, wrestling, field hockey, weight lifting and some more. In the year 1912, events for women were introduced for the first time in Olympics. Till the end of the twentieth century, only the beginners were permitted to participate. Presently, professionals are also allowed to participate.
