The Olympic Flame

Introduction

Olympia, on the northwest Peloponnesian peninsula, in southern Greece was the site of the original Olympic games. It was one of the most important religious centers of the ancient Greek world. Here, in the year 776 BC the Olympic games began. Every four years athletes from all over Greece competed in athletic events. Some of the most famous individuals of the ancient world traveled miles to see these events. People such as Plato, Themistocles, and Philip II of Macedonia were few amongst many to attend.

The games went on up until they were abolished in the early Christian era. The revival of the games took place in 1896 and since then have been staged every four years with the exceptions of 1916 (World War I) 1940 and 1944 (World War II).

Since the beginning of the games, as far back as 776 BC, many changes have taken place. For example, music, oratory and theatrical performances were features during the ancient Olympic games. Today, these events are not present. Many athletic events that took place during ancient times are still present during the games today. One feature that is present today as was in ancient times, is the Olympic Torch. This has been there since the beginning. What does the torch symbolize? Why did the ancient Greeks have the Olympic flame? Why do we have an Olympic Flame today? We will journey as far back as the first games to answer these questions and more. Follow along and discover the roots of the Olympic traditions.

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[Olympic Flame] [Angie's Hellenic Page]

For comments or suggestions please write to: Angie Tzouvelakos