The history of the Olympic Games

The origin of the Olympic Games

The Olympic Games began around 3,000 years ago in Greece, at Olympia. These sporting and religious festivities were held every four years and brought together athletes from all over Greece. However, in the 4th century, the practice of the Olympic Games disappeared.

The Renaissance of the Modern Olympic Games

In 1896, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, a French historian, revamped the Olympic Games. His dream was to bring nations around the world together in peaceful competition. These first modern Olympic Games took place in Athens, the birthplace of the ancient Games.

Why Create the Olympic Games?

The main objectives of the creation of the Olympic Games are:

• – A symbol of peace and unity among nations: Promoting international harmony and cooperation. 🤝
• – Train healthy and balanced individuals: Sport contributes to healthy physical and mental development. 💪
• – Celebrate self-improvement and sportsmanship: Encourage excellence and personal improvement. 🏃

The Organization of the Olympic Game

The Olympic Games are organized every four years and come in three types:

• – Summer Olympics: The best known, including a variety of sports.
• – Winter Olympics: Including sports on snow and ice. ⛷️
• – Paralympic Games: For disabled athletes. ♿

Each country selects its athletes to participate. The Games always begin with an opening ceremony and end with a closing ceremony. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) decides the location of the next Olympic Games.

The Symbols of the Olympic Games

The Five Intertwined Rings

Created by Pierre de Coubertin, the five rings represent the union of the five continents. Each color symbolizes at least one continent: blue for Europe, yellow for Asia, black for Africa, green for Oceania and red for the Americas.

The Olympic Flame

Traditionally, a flaming torch is lit in Athens and relayed to the host country of the Games by several athletes.

The Olympic Motto

The Olympic motto is « Citius, Altius, Fortius » in Latin, meaning « Faster, Higher, Stronger ». It expresses the aspiration of athletes to always push their limits.