In AD 394, a significant event in history occurred when the Roman Emperor Theodosius I officially banned the ancient Olympic Games. This decision marked the end of a tradition that had lasted for nearly 1,200 years, as the games were closely tied to Greek culture and religion. Theodosius aimed to promote Christianity and suppress pagan practices, which included the athletic competitions held in honor of the gods. This year also saw the final defeat of the pagan temples in the Roman Empire, as Theodosius enforced laws against non-Christian worship. The decline of the Olympic Games symbolized a broader shift in society, as the Roman Empire transitioned from its polytheistic roots to a predominantly Christian culture.