In 1896, as Athens was preparing to host the first marathon run, Greece was completing an impressive race of economic development and urban modernization. Vast sums of money were invested in roads and railroads as the country tried to catch up to the developed western European nations following many decades of stagnation after the establishment of the Greek state. Wealthy diaspora Greeks came back and financed the construction of impressive private mansions and public buildings. Athens embarked on a large-scale project of urban improvement and beautification to prepare for the reception of tens of thousands of foreign visitors who were expected on the occasion of the Olympic Games.