The first Olympic games were held in 776 BC in Olympia, Greece and lasted 15-17 days as a religious festival honoring Zeus. Running was the first event, and a man named Coroebus won the inaugural foot race wearing nothing but oil on his body. Only men, boys and unmarried women were allowed to attend the ancient Olympics, while married women had their own festival at the same location.

1. Here are some questions about the Ancient Olympics:
1. When were the first Olympic games?
776 BC.
2. Where were the first Olympic games held?
Olympia, South-West Greece.
3. Why were the Olympics held?
As a religious event to worship the Gods and more precisely Zeus.
4. How long did they last for?
15 to 17 days.
5. What was the first olympic game played?
Running.
6. Who won the first foot race?
A man named Coroebus won the stadion or foot race.
7. What did Olympic runners wear?
They didn’t wear anything apart from oil on their bodies.
8. Who were the famous athletes?
Chionis of Sparta, Nero, Milo of Croton, Aurelios Zopyros.
9. What were the winners given?
They were given a wreath of leaves and a hero’s welcome back home.
10. Who was allowed to attend the first Olympic?
Only men, boys and unmarried girls were allowed.
11. What did married women do while the Olympics games were on?
They had their own festival at Olympia every four years. This was Heraia, held in honour of
Hera, wife of Zeus.
12. What was the nastiest event?
Probably the pankration or all-in-wrestling was the nastiest event. There were hardly any rules.
13. What did they do when the Olympic games were over?
The games ended with a feast, lots of oxen were toasted in a giant barbecue.
From Y6