The Olympic Games originated in ancient Greece. The first recorded Olympic Games were held in 776 BC in Olympia, a sanctuary site dedicated to Zeus. Initially, the games featured only a single event, a foot race, but over time expanded to include a variety of athletic competitions such as wrestling, boxing, and chariot racing. The Olympics were held every four years and were a significant cultural event, encouraging unity among the city-states of Greece. The modern Olympic Games, revived in 1896, continue this legacy, promoting international peace and cooperation through athletic competition.