On 6 April 1896, the first modern Olympic Games officially opened in Athens, marking the revival of an ancient tradition that had been lost for over 1,500 years.
The event, inspired by the ancient Greek Olympics, resulted from efforts led by French educator Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who believed that international sports competitions could promote peace and unity among nations.
His vision gained support, and in 1894, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was formed, selecting Athens as the host city to honour the Games’ historical roots.
The Greek Government, despite financial struggles, worked to restore the Panathenaic Stadium, an ancient structure made entirely of marble, to serve as the main venue. The enthusiasm of the Greek people played a key role in bringing the event to life.
When the Games began, approximately 241 athletes from 14 countries competed, though the majority of participants were from Greece. Women were not allowed to compete, as the Olympics at the time were only open to male athletes.
The competitions featured nine sports: athletics, cycling, fencing, gymnastics, shooting, swimming, tennis, weightlifting, and wrestling. Some events differed from today’s standards, such as swimming, which was held in the open waters of the Bay of Zea rather than in a pool.
One of the most significant moments of the Games came during the marathon, a race inspired by the legendary run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides from the town of Marathon to Athens. Greek runner Spyridon Louis won the event, becoming a national hero and securing a victory that thrilled the local crowd.
Another standout athlete was American James Connolly, who won the triple jump, becoming the first Olympic champion of the modern era. The US performed well in track and field events, while Greece dominated gymnastics.
The Games also saw the participation of athletes from Germany, France, Great Britain, and several other nations, setting the stage for future global participation.
The opening ceremony was a grand spectacle, attended by King George I of Greece and a crowd of around 50,000 spectators. Athletes entered the stadium in groups based on nationality, and the Olympic Hymn, composed for the occasion, was performed.
The closing ceremony was equally significant, with winners receiving silver medals and olive branches, while second-place athletes were awarded copper medals. Gold medals were not introduced until the 1904 Olympics.
The success of the 1896 Games proved that the Olympic movement had a future, despite initial doubts about its sustainability. The event revived global interest in competitive sports and laid the foundation for what would become the most prestigious international sporting competition.
Although the scale of the Games was much smaller than what we see today, the enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and sense of unity it fostered remain central to the Olympic spirit. The Athens Olympics of 1896 set a precedent, demonstrating that nations could come together to celebrate athletic excellence, a tradition that continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans worldwide.