When did the Olympics begin?

The Olympic Games of antiquity date back to 776 BC in Greece. There are written documents supporting the date of the first Games, which were held in the southern region of Greece known as the Peloponnese, in the city of Olympia. This region of Greece is located on a peninsula of the same name. The city of Olympia is located in the western part of the region. A stadium which held thousands of people was located there, along with other ancient structures, which accommodated large numbers of people every four years when the Olympic Games were held. Temples in honor of the Greek god Zeus and the goddess Hera stood near the Olympic stadium.

History and mythology become intertwined when the origins of the games are discussed. Most of the myths provide evidence of the Games being held in honor of the Greek god Zeus. Young men came together each Olympiad to demonstrate their prowess in ancient athletic endeavors.