Inspired by the original, uncorrupted Olympics, Baron Pierre de Coubertin of France conceived the modern Olympic Games.

He proposed the idea publicly for the first time in 1892 and then spent the next three and a half years drumming up support.

Interest was strongest in Greece, so it was decided to hold the first Olympics in Athens.

The 1896 Athens Games were funded by a gift from wealthy architect Georgios Averoff of one million drachmas, and by the sale of souvenir stamps and medals.

Although the quality of the athletes' performances was only mediocre, the Games were a huge success.

The enthusiasm and good sportsmanship of the Greek spectators were rewarded when the highlight event, the marathon was won by a Greek peasant, Spiridon Louis.