Some 40,000 spectators, as well as hundreds of competitors from 87 countries, descended on the Fisht stadium - one of five newly-built venues in the Olympic Park.

A huge snowflake appeared in its place, as the stadium was plunged into darkness for the start of the ceremony.

 

More than 6,000 costumes were reportedly made for performers in the show, which reflected on important events in Russian history, including the 1917 Revolution, the rise of Communism and the space race.

Tennis star Maria Sharapova was among those who carried the Olympic torch on the final leg of its journey, while the cauldron was lit by rhythmic gymnastics star Alina Kabayeva and wrestling champion Aleksandr Karelin.

A memorable opening ceremony featured appearances by former Russian boxing champion Nikolay Valuev and renowned ballet dancer Svetlana Zakharova.