First Zappas Olympics open in Athens (1859–1861)

The first Zappas Olympics opened in Athens on 15 November 1859, sponsored by Greek businessman Evangelis Zappas. Athletes competed in disciplines similar to ancient games, including running and wrestling. The event was held in a city square, not the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted later editions. Zappas provided funds for staging and infrastructure, influencing future Olympic developments.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Evangelis Zappas, a Greek philanthropist and businessman, is recognized as a founder of the modern Olympic Games. He sponsored the series of athletic events held in Athens in 1859, 1870, and 1875. Zappas provided the funds for the staging of the games and for the construction of infrastructure, including the refurbishment of the Panathenaic Stadium, though the first games occurred in a city square.

Competition. In the initial games of 1859, athletes competed in disciplines similar to those of the ancient Olympic games, such as running, discus, javelin throwing, wrestling, jumping, and pole climbing. These events were closed to all but Greek-speaking competitors, mirroring the Ancient Olympics. The success of these games provided inspiration for William Penny Brookes in England.

Legacy. Zappas left a vast fortune for the continuation of Olympic Games in four-year intervals. His contribution was vital, as he hosted the games at his own initiative. The first man placed on the honor roll of the Wenlock Olympian Society, Petros Velissariou, competed at the 1859 Athens Olympic Games in distance running.

People involved

Sources

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