The correct answer is option 'D' - the Ancient Olympic Games were initially a 5-day event. Let's explore the details of this answer below.

The Ancient Olympic Games:
The Ancient Olympic Games were a series of athletic competitions held in Olympia, Greece, from 776 BCE to 393 CE. These games were held in honor of the Greek god Zeus and were an important part of ancient Greek culture.

Duration of the Ancient Olympic Games:
Initially, the Ancient Olympic Games were a 5-day event. The games were structured in such a way that each day had its own specific activities and events. Let's take a closer look at the breakdown of the 5-day event:

Day 1: Opening Ceremonies and Religious Rituals:
The first day of the Ancient Olympic Games was dedicated to opening ceremonies and religious rituals. Athletes, officials, and spectators gathered at the sacred site of Olympia to pay homage to the gods, particularly Zeus. Prayers, sacrifices, and processions took place to seek divine blessings and ensure the success of the games.

Day 2: Foot Races:
The second day of the games was dedicated to foot races. Various running events, such as the stadion (a short sprint), diaulos (a double-length race), and dolichos (a long-distance race), were held. These competitions tested the speed, agility, and endurance of the athletes.

Day 3: Combat Sports:
On the third day, combat sports were the focus. This included events like wrestling, boxing, and pankration (a combination of wrestling and boxing). Athletes engaged in intense physical combat, demonstrating their strength, technique, and skill.

Day 4: Equestrian Events and Pentathlon:
The fourth day of the Ancient Olympic Games featured equestrian events and the pentathlon. The equestrian events included horse racing and chariot races, where skilled charioteers competed for victory. The pentathlon consisted of five disciplines: long jump, javelin throw, discus throw, stadion foot race, and wrestling.

Day 5: Closing Ceremonies and Prize Distribution:
The final day of the games was dedicated to closing ceremonies and the distribution of prizes. Victorious athletes were honored with olive wreaths or palm branches, and their achievements were celebrated with music, feasts, and various forms of entertainment. The closing ceremonies marked the end of the Ancient Olympic Games.

In Conclusion:
The Ancient Olympic Games were initially a 5-day event, with each day dedicated to specific activities and events. The games began with opening ceremonies and religious rituals, followed by foot races, combat sports, equestrian events, and the pentathlon. The closing ceremonies concluded the games, where victorious athletes were rewarded for their achievements. These ancient games were a significant cultural and sporting event in ancient Greece, promoting physical prowess, competition, and the worship of the gods.