How were ancient Olympic Games winners celebrated, and what kinds of prizes did they receive?

The ancient Olympics were an important religious and athletic festival held every four years in Olympia, Greece, from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD. During these games, athletes from various city-states competed in various events, such as running, discus and javelin throwing, horse racing, and combat sports. Winners received an olive wreath and were highly admired by the spectators, their fellow citizens, and even the kings and emperors of their time.

The olive wreath, made of olive leaves from the sacred groves near Olympia, was a highly coveted symbol of victory and honour in ancient Greece. In addition to the olive wreath, some winners also received a prize of money, while others received valuable gifts, such as horses, armour, and even statues of themselves. The exact nature and value of the prizes varied from time to time and from event to event, but what mattered most was the glory, status, and fame that came with victory.