The first Olympic Games were held in ancient Greece in 776 BC in the city of Olympia. These games were part of a religious festival honoring Zeus, the king of the gods. Initially, the competitions were primarily athletic events, including running, wrestling, and chariot racing, and they took place every four years. The games attracted competitors from various Greek city-states, fostering a sense of unity among them, despite their often-existing rivalries. The modern Olympic Games, which began in 1896, aim to continue this spirit of international competition and unity.