First adopted at the inaugural ancient Olympic Games in 776 BC and revived by the International Olympic Committee in the early 1990s with the support of the United Nations, the Olympic Truce seeks to bring an end to conflict around the world.

  The tradition of the Olympic Truce dates back to the early days of the Games, and the reign of Iphitos, King of Elis, who was intent on breaking the incessant cycle of armed conflict that beset Ancient Greece in the ninth century BC.

  According to legend, he sought the counsel of the oracle of Delphi, who advised him to found a peaceful sporting competition, which would become none other than the Olympic Games.

  Iphitos had the support of fellow monarchs Cleisthenes of Pisa and Lycurgus of Sparta and signed a truce with them known as the "Ekecheira". As a result of the accord, all regional conflict came to an end every four years to allow the Games to take place, the first of them being staged in 776 BC.

  Beginning seven days before the Olympic Games got under way and ending seven days after them, the Truce allowed athletes, artists, their families and ordinary pilgrims to travel in total safety in order to participate in or attend the Games and to then return home afterwards.

  As the Games neared, the Truce was proclaimed and announced by citizens of Elis, who travelled across Greece to pass on the message.