The Evidance

There is ample evidence of Aegean athletic competitions during the Bronze Age. Unlike modern day cowboys, the ancient Minoans did not ride bulls. Instead, they jumped over them. Bull leaping and other forms of gymnastics were favorite events among the Minoans. Many works of art, like this fresco depicting a scene of youths leaping over a charging bull by hand-springing off the bull’s back, reveal the procedures and equipment used in Minoan athletic competitions. From archaeological evidence, it is apparent that bull leaping was an important part of Minoan culture and religious festivals. The Minoans also engaged in boxing, wrestling, and running competitions, all of which were eventually adopted by the Myceneans who added chariot racing to the list of events. Archaeological evidence from Myceneans times shows many scenes of athletic competitions depicted on tombs and gravestones.