What is the origin of the Olympic Games and when was the first one?

The Olympic Games have been around for about 3000 years since Ancient Greece, but their origin has remained somewhat murky over time. The games originally took place in Olympia every four years as they do now.

Many ancient cultures have contributed to the unique blend of sports, ceremonies, and traditions that make up the modern Olympics but it’s believed to have started in 776 BC. From the ancient Greeks hosting sporting events to honor Zeus, to the much later revival of the games in Athens in 1896, it's no wonder that more than a few theories exist on what exactly spawned this beloved event - though none can be definitively proven!