The Ancient Olympics News Article
By: Ryan Basileo Oct. 11, 2016
The Ancient Olympics and How It Was
According to historical records, the first ancient Olympic Games can be traced back to 776 BC. They were dedicated to the Olympian god and were staged on the ancient plains of Olympia. They continued for nearly 12 centuries, until Emperor Theodosius decreed in 393 A.D. that all such "pagan cults" be banned. The Ancient Olympics were looked good on by people because it was the only time when national sports that they played were out on display, and for ones competing in the olympics was very special because they want to show all the people what they could do because there were no TVs and people could not just watch the games like how we watch the Texas Ranger and Dallas Cowboy games on national television. They actaully had to go to attend the olympics and watch it with their own eyes. The Ancient Olympics were highly attended by people and citizens. The Ancient Olympic Games were held in Olympia, which is in the western part of the Peloponnese which, according to greek mythology, is the island pf "Pelops", the founder of the Olympic Games. Imposing temples, votive buidings, elaborate shines and ancient sporting facilities were combined in a site of unique natural and mystical beauty. Olympia functioned as a meeting place for worship and other religious and political practices. The central part of Olympia was dominated by the majestic temple of Zeus, with the temple of Hera right next to it.