Ancient greek olympic games symbol

This game has come to symbolize excellence and true sportsmanship in the modern world. It is held once every four years.

Because of the widespread popularity of the Olympic Games, the ancient Greek BC is such a significant time. The time chosen for the games was the full moon of midsummer. This time was chosen so that the players could get the light for a long time.

The Olympic Games gave birth to so many traditions and systems that Greek BC assumed special importance. The impact of some of these features spread far beyond the games. Some of them are:. The Olympics in ancient Greece BC was marked by a sedate foot race. However, the rules became much more competitive later on. The purpose of the Games in ancient Greece BC was religious worship, especially to revere the gods of Olympia. During the ancient Olympic Games a flame was lit in a cauldron and burned for the duration of those games.

The lighting and extinguishing of the flame was thought to represent the death and re-birth of the Greek heroes. In it was decided that the flame should be transferred to a torch and carried in relay from Olympia, Greece to Berlin where, as part of the Opening Ceremony the final relay runner ignited a new cauldron.

In recent times the torch has been carried around the host country in a relay timed to finish at the time of the Opening Ceremony. The idea that an Olympic oath should be taken by athletes was championed by Pierre de Coubertin and was first used at the Antwerp games in An athlete from the host country holds a corner of the Olympic flag and recites the oath on behalf of all competitors.

The original oath was:. We will take part in the Olympic Games in a spirit of chivalry, for the honour of our country and for the glory of sport. We will take part in the Olympic Games in a spirit of chivalry, for the honour of our team and for the glory of sport. Originally, the ancient Greeks lit the Olympic Flame directly from the suns rays at Olympia. This is a branch of olive tree formed into a circle. This was the ancient award for Olympic champions.

The medals awarded to first, second and third place are a major feature of the Olympics. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals are awarded. Each medal is a minimum of 60mm in diameter and must be at least 3mm thick.