Ancient Greek Olympics
By M Meek
When Did The Olympics Start?
The Olympics first started in 776 B.C., thats more than 3,000 years ago. The Olympics were held every four years, just like in modern times too. Ancient historians began to measure time by the 4-year increments in between each Olympics, these were named Olympiads.
Where Did The Olympics Originally Come From?
In 776 B.C. the olympics first took place in Olympia, Greece, to honor the god Zeus. The Olympics were named from where they came from, Olympia, modern Olympia is in ruins.
Who Were The Olympics and Other Festivals For?
Zeus
The Olympic festival was created to honor Zeus, father of all gods. The greeks were so religious to the Olympics all wars were stopped for at least a month.
Hera
Since women weren't aloud to attend the Olympics, they had their own festival in honor the the goddess Hera, goddess of marriage.
Apollo
There is a special festival just for the god Apollo, god of Sun, healing, music, poetry and more. The festival included many poems and greek drama.
What Events Were In The Olympics
Today the Olympics have many events, but the first couple of Olympic festivals only had a long foot race. Most people would think that its boring watching some one run for a long time so the greeks added more events to the Olympics such as jumping, sprinting, discus throwing, javelin throwing and wrestling.