The book Olympia:

Olympia: A dive into the ancient Olympic Games.

Introduction:

• In 1732, the Dutch preacher Theodorus Antonides published a fascinating work entitled "Olympia, that is, the Olympic Games of the Greeks, imitated from the Romans, taken from ancient Greek and Roman authors".

• This book offered a detailed description of the ancient Olympic Games, based on the writings of Greek and Roman authors.

A deep dive into antiquity:

• Antonides' work goes beyond a simple list of sports and rules. 

• He explores the deeper meaning of the Games in Greek and Roman society. 

• He describes the religious and cultural context in which the Games took place and the values they embodied, such as honor, discipline, and sportsmanship.

The Games in detail:

• The book describes in detail the various sports practiced during the Games, such as athletics, wrestling, boxing, and horse racing. 

• Antonides also highlights the training athletes underwent to prepare for competition, and the rules that were in place to ensure fair competition.

A unique source of information:

• "Olympia" is a valuable resource for anyone wanting to learn more about the ancient Olympic Games. 

• The book offers a unique perspective on this important aspect of Greek and Roman culture and provides a better understanding of the roots of the modern Olympic Games. 

• In fact, Renson (1991) called the book "Olympia": a most valuable "missing link" of the period between the Ancient and Modern Games.