The Olympic flame of the Sochi Winter Games has been extinguished, marking the end of the 17-day games.
Fireworks exploded over the stadium and athletes poured onto the arena floor.
During the closing ceremony, president of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach said athletes and visitors to the games had "enjoyed exceptional conditions."
Bach praised Russia for delivering excellent sports venues, outstanding Olympic villages, and "impeccable organization."
Russia, which spent $51 billion on the games, will see the event as a success.
Warnings of terror threats and attacks before the games did not materialize, and Russia's first Winter Games ended with the host nation on top of the medals table, with Norway second and Canada third.
The 2018 Winter Games will be held in South Korea's Pyeongchang.
Photo Gallery:
Winter Olympics: Day 16 And Closing Ceremony
The main events of the final day of the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics in photos. On Day 16, February 23, Russia took two gold medals and Canada won the men's ice hockey gold medal match against Sweden. As Sochi marked the end of the games with an elaborate closing ceremony, the Olympic flag was handed over to the mayor of Pyeongchang, South Korea, host of the next Winter Olympics. (18 PHOTOS)
PHOTOS: Winter Olympics -- Day 16 And Closing Ceremony
Based on reporting by AP and Reuters
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