London 2012

The Games have always brought people together in peace to respect universal moral principles.
The upcoming Games will feature athletes from all over the world (2052 countries) and help promote the Olympic spirit.

Greece was the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896. In 2004, the Olympic Games returned to their origins when Athens hosted the Olympiad.

Lost in the mists of time, the origins of the Olympic Games are generally attributed to the gods and heroes of Ancient Greece, who relished contests of speed and strength. Legends abound as to the origins of the Games. It is said that, after diverting the course of the River Alpheus, Heracles organized a race with his four brothers, and presented the winner with an olive wreath.