Isthmian, << IHS mee uhn, >> Games were ancient Greek competitions that formed part of a religious festival for Poseidon, god of the sea. The Isthmian Games were one of four international festivals. The others were the Nemean, Olympic, and Pythian games. During these festivals, Greeks from often hostile city-states could meet and compete in a peaceful setting.
The Isthmian Games were founded in 581 B.C. They were held every other year on the Isthmus of Corinth, which joins the Peloponnesus with the mainland. The competitions included boat, chariot, and foot races as well as boxing and wrestling. The athletic contests had separate divisions for boys, young men, and adult males. Lyre and flute players also had contests. All winners received palm boughs and crowns of celery leaves as prizes.
See also Olympic Games (The ancient games) .
