periodos

The term "periodos" in the context of ancient Greek games refers to the four major Panhellenic athletic festivals that were held in rotation. These games were a significant part of Greek religious and cultural life.

The most famous of these was the Olympic Games, held at Olympia in honor of Zeus. The first recorded Olympic Games took place in 776 BCE and initially featured only a single footrace, the stade. Over time, other events were added, including wrestling, boxing, chariot racing, and the pentathlon.12

Other important games in the "periodos" included the Pythian Games at Delphi, the Nemean Games at Nemea, and the Isthmian Games near Corinth. These festivals were held every four years, and the interval between them was used to measure time, known as an Olympiad. Athletes competed nude, and while the only prize at Olympia was a wreath, victors received great honor and often benefits from their home cities. These games were central to Greek identity and were even considered more important than military defense at times.312