Olympic Games

The world known Olympic Games are one of the most important competitions. These Games have long and striking history. Olympic Games are held every 4 years. The tradition of Olympic Games was revived in the 19th century. There are Summer Olympic Games and Winter Olympic Games. First only Summer Games existed and only in 1924 year Winter Olympic Games were also created. So every two years we have Olympic Games either in winter or in summer.

Ancient Olympic Games were held in Ancient Greece and were the religious and sport's holiday held in Olympia. Information about the origins of these competitions is missed, but there are a lot of legends that tell us the history of this holiday. The first documental register of this holiday refers to the year 776 b.c. but it is known that Olympic Games were also held earlier. All wars were stopped when these games were held.

When Romans came, Olympic Games lost their importance. After Christianity became the official religion Olympic Games were said to be the demonstration of heathenism and were forbidden.

The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896. And the International Olympic Committee was created. It was created to control and improve the organisation of Olympic Games. First modern Olympic Games had a great success in spite of only 14 countries-participants. And it became the greatest sports event from the times of Ancient World.

Olympic Games have their emblem and flag. The emblem is circles connected with each other and the main motto Citius, Altius, Fortius that means \"Swifter, Higher, Stronger" The flag is a white textile with the emblem of Olympic Games.

There are also special ceremonies of Olympic Games:

The Olympic Fire that is lightened during inauguration of Olympic Games that is carried from Olympia to the city – host of Olympic Games.

The oath is given by one of the greatest sportsmen of the country-host.

All winners get medals.

The flag and the anthem of the country-winner are put on to honour the winner.

The last Olympic Summer Games were held in China and the next Olympic winter Games will be held in Russia.