About this stamp
The Olympic Games, both ancient and modern, have a rich history of promoting unity and excellence. Here’s a brief overview:
Ancient Olympic Games
- Start Date: 776 B.C. at Olympia, Greece.
- Frequency: Held every four years until 393 A.D.
- Olympic Truce: During the Games, a truce was observed, halting conflicts and wars between participating Greek city-states.
Modern Olympic Games
- Revival: Initiated in 1896 by Baron Pierre de Coubertin in Athens.
- Coubertin’s Vision: He aimed to create an international sports platform fostering fraternity, equality, and brotherhood among nations.
- Participation Growth: From 13 countries in 1896 to 171 countries in 1992.
Centenary Celebrations (1996)
- Atlanta Games: Marked the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic movement.
- Commemorative Stamps: Issued to celebrate this milestone:
- Stamp 1: Depicts the Marble Stadium of Athens with the Parthenon in the background.
- Stamp 2: Features the Olympic torch, symbolizing the continuity of the Games.
- First Day Cover: Illustrates the Olympic motto, “Citius, Altius, Fortius” (Faster, Higher, Stronger), with the torch also appearing on the cancellation.
These stamps and commemorative items underscore the enduring spirit of the Olympics and the continued commitment to its founding ideals.
