What Are 5 Interesting Facts About Ancient Greece?

Ancient Greece is an intriguing subject that has fascinated people for centuries. The Greeks were known for their great contributions to philosophy, art, science, and politics. Here are 5 interesting facts about Ancient Greece that you may not have known before.

The Olympics Were Born in Greece

The ancient Greeks held the Olympic games every four years in Olympia, a sanctuary site for the Greek gods. The games were first held in 776 BC and continued until AD 393 when they were banned by the Christian Roman Emperor Theodosius I.

The Olympic games featured various athletic events such as running, jumping, boxing, and wrestling. Winners were awarded crowns made of olive leaves and became local heroes.

Greek Philosophers Made Great Contributions to Science

Greek philosophers such as Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates made great contributions to science. Aristotle is known for his studies of biology and physics while Plato studied ethics and metaphysics. Socrates was famous for his method of questioning which is still used today in the study of philosophy.

The Greeks Invented Democracy

The word democracy comes from the Greek word “demos” which means “people” and “kratos” which means “rule”. In ancient Athens, all male citizens had a say in how their city was run through a system of direct democracy. This system was the first of its kind in the world.

Greek Architecture Influenced Western Design

Greek architecture has had a profound influence on western design. The Greeks used columns to support their buildings which have since become iconic symbols of western architecture. Examples of Greek-influenced architecture can be seen all around us such as government buildings, banks, museums, and even homes.

The Greek Language Has Been Around for Over 3,000 Years

The Greek language has been around for over 3,000 years and is one of the oldest recorded languages in the world. The language has gone through several changes over the centuries but remains an important language today. Modern Greek is still spoken by millions of people in Greece and around the world.

  • Conclusion

Ancient Greece has had a profound impact on our world today. From the Olympics to philosophy, democracy to architecture, and language to science, the Greeks have left us with a rich legacy that continues to inspire us even after thousands of years.