The 1920 Olympic Games

Welcome to Antwerp’s former Olympic Stadium. This stadium is a silent witness to a remarkable moment in the city’s history and the Olympic movement.

After the First World War, in which Belgium suffered greatly, the International Olympic Committee chose Antwerp to host the 1920 Olympic Games. It was a symbolic gesture, honoring the resilience of a nation deeply affected by the war.

Despite the difficult economic situation after the conflict, Antwerp managed to organize the Games. Here in this stadium, competitions took place in various disciplines, from athletics to football and gymnastics. The 1920 Games introduced several firsts that forever shaped Olympic history.

For the first time, the famous five-ring symbol appeared, representing the unity of the five continents. An Olympic Village was also created for the first time, allowing athletes from different nations to live together – an important moment for international friendship and exchange. Moreover, female athletes were allowed to compete in swimming and diving for the first time, marking an important step toward greater equality in sport.

In total, 29 sports were featured in this modest yet historically significant edition. The United States dominated the medal standings, but Belgium as the host nation also delivered memorable performances that stirred national pride. The Games were not only a sporting event but also a message of peace and recovery after the devastation of the war.

This stadium reminds us of that era – a time when sport became a symbol of hope, unity, and rebuilding. It marks a moment when Antwerp briefly became the center of the world.