Question

Why were the Olympic games held in ancient Greece​

Answer 1

There is some historical dispute over the reason behind the ancient Olympics.

One theory is that it was a festival in honour of Zeus. This would help explain why it was named after Mount Olympus - where the Greek gods were said to have lived.

However, some historians believe that the ancient Olympics were actually funeral games held in honour of deceased local heroes.

This is entirely plausible, given that sporting events were often associated with funeral rituals.

During the festival, a vast number of oxen were sacrificed in honour of Zeus. After a small part of each animal was burned for the god, the rest of the meat was consumed by the people at a grand banquet.