The Athens 2004 Summer Olympics were held from August 13 to August 29, marking the return of the Games to their historical birthplace. This edition featured 301 events across 28 sports, with over 10,000 athletes from 201 countries participating. The Games were notable for their emphasis on Greek culture and history, with venues like the Panathenaic Stadium showcasing ancient architecture. The event also faced challenges, including construction delays and security concerns, but ultimately succeeded in celebrating athletic achievement and international unity.