The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896, marking the revival of this ancient institution. The idea belongs to the French Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who sought to revive the Games as a means of promoting peace and sport. Despite the economic hardships, Greece accepted the challenge.

Dimitrios Vikelas, first president of the International Olympic Committee, and the financial contribution by businessman and benefactor Georgios Averoff allowed for a successful event. The Games were held in the renovated Panathenaic Stadium and drew 241 athletes from 14 countries, who competed in 9 sports (tennis, weightlifting, gymnastics, swimming, fencing, wrestling, cycling, shooting, athletics).

The most iconic moment of the games was the victory of Spyros Louis in the marathon, which excited Greek spectators. The American James Connolly won the first gold medal in modern times in the triple jump, while the German Carl Schuhmann distinguished himself in many sports.

The success of the 1896 Olympic Games laid the foundations for the modern Olympic movement, establishing a tradition which continues to this day.

#ΕλληνικόςΣτρατός, #HellenicArmy