Olympic Truce
The Olympic Truce is a tradition originating from ancient Greece that dates back to 776 BC. A "truce" (from Ancient Greek ἐκεχειρία (ékécheiria) 'laying down of arms') was announced before and during the Olympic Games to ensure the host city state (Elis) was not attacked and athletes and spectators could travel safely to the Games and peacefully return to their respective countries. King Iphitos of Elis, Lycurgus of Sparta and Kleosthenes of Pisa made this treaty which remained respected by all ancient Greeks as international law.