<P> The Olympic Truce is a tradition originating from Ancient Greece that dates back to 776 BC . A "truce" (Ancient Greek: ékécheiria, meaning "laying down of arms") was announced before and during the Olympic Games to ensure the host city state (Elis) was not attacked and athletes and spectators could travel safely to the Games and peacefully return to their respective countries . </P> <P> In 1998, the International Olympic Committee renewed this tradition by calling upon all nations to observe the Truce during the modern Games . The Truce was revived by United Nations Resolution 48 / 11 of 25 October 1993, as well by the United Nations Millennium Declaration relating to the world peace and security . </P>

Who ordered the halt of ancient olympic games and why