College of Archaeology

The master’s thesis, entitled “The History of the Olympic Games in Ancient Greece,” was defended by student Ahmed Mahmoud Khalaf from the Civilization Department on Monday, May 19, 2025. Part of the viva defense was attended by Professor Dr. Muzahim Al-Khayat, Chairman of the Parliamentary Higher Education Committee, and Professor Dr. Wahid Mahmoud Al-Ibrahimi, President of the University of Mosul. The thesis addressed the ancient Olympic Games, which have occupied a fundamental place in the lives of the Greek people since early times. They played a significant role in their history, and the effects of this status have even reached the modern era. The Olympic Games, which are still held regularly every four years, trace their origins back to the celebrations of ancient Olympia. The first mention of the Olympic Games, in a number of novels and myths, dates back to 776 BC. They were held in the city of Olympia in honor of the god Zeus. They were held regularly every four years during the summer months, and included numerous games. They lasted for 1,168 years, during which 293 Olympic Games were held. They were abolished by the Roman Emperor Theodosius, considering them a manifestation of paganism when Christianity emerged in 393 AD.
The viva committee consisted of the following professors:
Prof. Dr. Hussein Zahir Hamoud, University of Mosul, College of Education for Humanities, Department of History, Chairman
Prof. Dr. Kadhim Abdullah Attia, University of Baghdad, College of Education for Girls, Department of History, Member
Assistant Professor Dr. Khalaf Zidan Khalaf, University of Mosul, College of Education for Humanities, Department of History, Member
Assistant Professor Dr. Abdul Aziz Alyas Sultan, University of Mosul, College of Education for Human Sciences, Department of History, as a member and supervisor. Professor Yasmin Abdul Karim Muhammad Ali, Dean of the College, represented the late Dr. Abdul Aziz Alyas Sultan. The Deanship of the College of Archaeology wishes the student success and prays for mercy and forgiveness for the supervising professor.