Brief Introduction . . . . . . . .
They began over 2, 700 years ago in a town called Olympia In the southwest region. They inspired the world to have the olympics now. The olympic games were held in honour of Zeus, the King of all Gods. Every four years they were staged at Olympia.
Youtube Clip . . . . . . . .
This youtube clip talks about the olympics in a funny way. It is from a tv show called horrible histories.
Events . . . . . . . . . .
At the first time they held the olympics the only event they had was a short sprint from one side of the stadium to the other. Then they added wrestling, boxing, long jump, javelin and discus, and chariot racing. In a pentathlon there were 5 events; running, wrestling, javelin, discus and long jump. One of the hardest races was the hoplites where you had to run in full body armour. Wreaths were given to the winners. They might marry rich people, enjoy the luxury of free meals, invitations to heaps of parties and the best seats in the theatre.
Spectators . . . . . .
The stadium held around 50 000 people. The spectators had to find somewhere to sleep in there tents or even sleep on the ground. Important people received booked hotel rooms. It was very overcrowded with the hot sun beaming on everyone. At first they did not have 1 drinking fountain. The games always ended with a feast.
Women . . . . . .
Women were not allowed to participate or watch the olympic games, even if a family member is in it. They held games of their on called Heraea. When the romans conquered Greece, the Heraea games stopped.
Youtube Clip . . . . . . .
This youtube clip explains how it all began.