history of the Olympic Games originated in ancient Greece.The first historical mention of this event date back to 776 BCInterestingly, the Olympic Games were held in antiquity, not only as sports but also as a religious ceremony.Initially games were held every four years and they lasted only one day.According to one legend, the first member of the ancient Greek Olympics became Hercules.
Ancient Olympia was the only place where the ancient Olympic Games were held.It is the largest sanctuary in the Peloponnese was not chosen by chance - it was a form of natural, natural amphitheater, which was located among the wooded plains and slopes, between the rivers Alpheus and Claudia.This modern settlement Olympia, participants from distant lands came to the game ships.
Historical documents indicate that the Olympic Games were held in antiquity only in peacetime - a month before the games between all the warring city declared a truce to all the participants were able to arrive safely to Olympia.Any city that violated the law of the Armistice, was punished by banning its athletes to participate in further competitions.
at Olympia is not only held the Olympic Games - the story tells that took place there and the ancient Greek religious festival.During the religious ceremony praised the people of Zeus, as well as the fallen heroes.The games themselves begin with prayer and ritual sacrifice.
In the year that were to be held the Olympic Games, in ancient times all corners of Greece sent messengers with torches, who declared a truce.Many centuries later, bearing the torch has become an indispensable ritual preceding the beginning of the modern Olympic Games.
Competitors for the title in the competition could only be freeborn Greeks or slaves to obtain the release and pardon.Sports competitions were held separately for men and boys separately.Young men were grouped into several categories based on their age, physique and strength.
Though women and forbidden to take part in physical competitions, but they could show their skills in equestrian competitions, but this would have to own a horse or chariot.
Olympic Games in ancient times, was originally included in its regulations, only five kinds of sports events: javelin, discus, long jump, fight and run.Subsequently, joined by racing, chariot races, boxing and pankration.On the first day of the Olympics were held religious ceremonies, as well as ancient Greek athletes took the oath of compliance with fair rules of the game.Sami race began the next day.
Contest Winners were crowned with crowns of olive leaves out of the temple of Zeus.In addition, the winner could carve his own statue at Olympia.After returning to their homes waiting for the champion glory and honor - he received various benefits in the form of free meals and the best places at public events.
the Olympic Games were provided only first prizes, so sports in ancient Greece in early childhood cultivated and worshiped as well as arts education.
