Olympia

Olympia was the only place in the world where gods and men were worshiped. Every fourth year in July, thousands flocked to Olympia to take part in or watch the greatest spectacle of this time period.

The first ancient Olympic Games can be traced back to 776 BC. They were dedicated to the Olympian gods 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.

Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games, is in the western part of the Peloponnese which, according to Greek mythology, is the island of "Pelops", the founder of the Olympic Games. Imposing temples, votive buildings, elaborate shrines 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 as early as the 10th century B.C. The central part of Olympia was dominated by the majestic temple of Zeus, with the temple of Hera parallel to it.

This beautiful Olympic stage created a great atmosphere for the athletes as well as well as the spectators. Imagine partaking in these events during this period and embracing the competiveness amongst the athletes.

Here is a video that showcases the earliest events and allows you to see the spectacle that were the Ancient Olympics
Birth of the Olympics