the ancient greek olympics

Supreme God of the Olympians

King of the Gods, god of the sky, symbolized by the thunderbolt.

His siblings: Posiedon, Hades, Hestia, Demeter, and Hera

Zeus

He and his siblings fought to gain control of the universe from the Titans and Cronus (his father)

He and his brothers (Poseidon and Hades) divided up creation with Zeus receiving the sky as his domain. He was also accorded supreme authority on earth and on Mount Olympus.

As the ruler of the Olympian gods, Zeus held enormous power and almost absolute authority. His role was primarily to watch over the activities of the other gods, and make sure they weren't exceeding their powers.

The Ancient Greek Olympics

Began in 776 BC at Olympia, GreeceOriginally a religious ceremony in honor of

the Greek gods.100 oxen were sacrificed at the beginning of

the Games“Olympic Truce:” All wars and battles were

halted so that everyone could come and watch the Games.

Based on 4-year periods called Olympiads

The Ancient Olympics

The Olympic AthleteMen only allowed to

playMen had to play in

the nude or with very little clothing (“gymnos”)

Running was the only event at the first Games

Original Running Track:Olympia, Greece

Gradually more events were added to make four days of competitions. They included wrestling, boxing, long jump, throwing the javelin and discus, and chariot racing.

In the pentathlon, there were five events: running, wrestling, javelin, discus and long jump. One of the toughest events was the race for hoplites, men wearing armour and carrying shields.

Ancient Olympic Events

RulesIn Wrestling…-No biting,-No eye gouging,-Breaking opponent’s

limbs was legal,In Boxing…-Both men played until

one gave up or died

In Greece, there was no Second Place

Only winners were honored, the losers were ignored

Winners were given a laurel wreath for their head

Wrestling

Chariot Racing

Running

Discus

Boxing

Javelin

The WinnersWinners were given

a wreath of leaves, and a hero's welcome back home. Winners might marry rich women, enjoy free meals, invitations to parties, and the best seats in the theatre.

SpectatorsAbout 50,000 people could sit in the stadium.

Away from the arena, most spectators had to find somewhere to pitch their tents or sleep rough, but important visitors and athletes had hotel rooms. It was hot and overcrowded, and the water supply was poor, at first not even a proper drinking fountain. This didn't stop people coming though!

Women at the Olympics

Only men, boys and unmarried girls were allowed to attend the Olympic Games. Married women were not allowed into the Olympic Games. Any women caught sneaking in were punished! Women could own horses in the chariot race though.

The End of the Games

The Games ended with a feast. Lots of oxen were roasted in a giant barbecue. Traders came to do business, entertainers such as jugglers and acrobats performed, and politicians made speeches to the crowds

The end of the Ancient GamesEnded in 394 AD

by the Roman Emperor Theodosius, who was a Christian

Considered them “pagan” games