The first ancient Olympic Games is believed to have taken place in 776 BC. Different Greek states competed in the events in honor of their god Zeus. These games became a central part of Greece’s culture, fostering their values and beliefs. When the Persians invaded in 480 BC, they couldn’t send reinforcements because their military was participating in the Olympics. This is how important the games were. Here are the facts about the Ancient Olympics you should know.
Named after Mount Olympus
The ancient games were named after Mount Olympus, the home of the Greek gods. However, the event took place in the Western Peloponnese region at the Olympia Stadium, which had a capacity of about 45,000. The games took place every four years. The period was known as the Olympiad and the event lasted for five days.
Become an insider. Subscribe to our newsletter for more top trending stories like this!
People Also Read: Why Finidi George Resigned in 2024 as Nigerian Coach After Two Games
You can buy quality footballs from Amazon.
It Had Religious Significance
The ancient Greeks held the Olympic games in honor of the Greek god, Zeus, hence naming them after Mount Olympus, where the gods live. Others believe the games were funerals because they practised funeral rituals. For example, people sacrificed oxen and then ate the meat.
Women weren’t Allowed to Participate
Greek men of any social status could participate in the Ancient Olympic Games. Emperors were among the competitors. Despite the ban on women, chariot racing provided a loophole because anyone was allowed to own a horse. This meant that the daughter of the King, Kyniska, was the first female Olympic winner. She had four horses that were crowned champions between 396 BC and 392 BC.
People Also Read: What Are Tennis Court Surfaces Made Of?
You can get a pair of soccer shoes at Walmart.
Only One Event at the Ancient Olympic Games
It’s difficult to imagine how the games had only one event but that was the case. Participants competed in the footrace of about 190 meters. The event expanded from one day to five and from one game to 18. Some of the games include a double stadion race, long-distance race (dolichos), pentathlon, wrestling, boxing and pankration.
Breaking Rules Attracted Physical Punishment
In the Ancient Olympics, participants who attempted to gain an unfair advantage faced physical punishment. Officials flogged them and could also impose fines. This goes contrary to modern sport where there is a general agreement of fairness in sport. Athletes who cheat are fined or banned but never physically punished.
Join our Spotcovery Global Black Community Facebook Group for early access to exclusive content and to share in a lively discussion.
Buy water bottles and use them in training at Target.
Athletes Competed Nude
Ancient Greek Olympic participants competed naked, symbolizing the power of the ancient god Zeus. They wanted to show their athleticism and power and differentiate themselves from their enemies. Nudity was a show of strength and was highly celebrated.
People Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive Football Trophies in Football
Become an insider. Subscribe to our newsletter for more top trending stories like this!
You can get different types of sports bags in Mark & Graham.
No Medals For Winning Athletes
Another interesting fact about the Ancient Olympics is that winners never received gold, silver or bronze medals. Instead, they received a wreath with leaves as a prize and were allowed to put a stature of themselves at Altis Grove. When the event ended, they were invited to a feast.
People Also Read: Black Excellence: 8 Best Olympians of All Time That Will Inspire You
Eating healthy is important for sports players. Get their meal plans on Fuel Meals.
Held in the Summer
The ancient Greek Olympics took place in the summer. Apart from the favorable weather, many people were available to participate in the games. The agriculture sector, the main economic activity in ancient Greece, was inactive during this period so it was the only time the games could be held. That tradition has carried on to this day.
Ended in 394 AD
The Ancient Olympic Games lost its prestige and popularity. Invasions, earthquakes and floods led to the destruction of Olympus. The games ended in 394 AD after the Roman Empire Theodosius I banned pagan celebrations. The first modern Olympics took place in Athens, Greece.
These are the facts about the Ancient Olympics you should know. The Olympics is the most prestigious multi-sport event in the world so it’s important to know about its origins. Which fact did you know about and which ones didn’t you know about?
Nearly 80% of consumers visit directories with reviews to find a local business. List your business for free in our exclusive Spotcovery Black-Owned Business Directory.
Spotcovery offers unique and fresh daily content on Black culture, lifestyle, and experiences. We talk about everything black, black people, black-owned and black-owned businesses. We also deliver authentic and relevant content that will inform, inspire, and empower you! The future of black media is critical to today’s black experience! Our primary audience includes African Americans, Africans, Afro-Caribbean, and people of African heritage. Black culture is for the culture!
Become an insider. Subscribe to our newsletter for more top trending stories like this!
