How did Peisistratus reorganize the Panathenaic Games?

Peisistratus reorganized the Panathenaea by enhancing the festival's prestige and structure to promote the unity and majesty of the Athenian state. Specifically, he accentuated the Great Panathenaea—which was held every four years—by introducing athletic contests and establishing prizes for bards who recited Homeric epics.1

These reforms were part of a broader effort to elevate Athena as the primary deity for all Athenian citizens, effectively using the festival to foster a sense of national identity. The games, which began around 566 BCE, were likely intended to serve as a rival to the Olympic Games.12