The ancient and modern Nemean Games: The evolution of socio-cultural and political functions

The aim of this article is both to describe the phenomenon of the ancient and modern Nemean Games and to present differences between sporting events held in the period B.C. and those which currently take place in Nemea. Political, cultural and touristic aspects, including their signifi cance in different eras, are of particular interest to the authors of the paper. As will be stated, in ancient times, the Nemean Games performed mostly religious and political functions. Whereas, currently they play social, cultural and touristic roles, which translates into economic development of the region.