History's Greatest Cities

Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by author Bradley Mayhew to explore Samarkand, the ancient Uzbek city and major hub on the Silk Roads. Together, they trace more than two millennia of history, from its ancient origins in the seventh century BC through conquest by Alexander the Great, destruction by Genghis Khan, prominence under Timur and later incorporation into the Soviet Union. Along the way, they meet major historical figures, try the local cuisine and share top advice for visitors to the city today. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Serving as a medieval royal capital, Kraków was a vibrant historical centre of culture, learning and commerce, symbolising the region’s political and intellectual life for centuries. In this episode, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield and historian Professor Natalia Nowakowska guide us through the streets, squares and stories of this ancient city. They consider how invasion, oppression, and renewal shaped the city we know today – as well as the complex history and legacy of the Jewish population that played such an important role in the city's success for many centuries before Nazi occupation. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thinking about booking a big historical trip in 2026? In this bonus episode of History’s Greatest Cities, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by Tom Hall, vice president at Lonely Planet, to explore the best locations for history lovers. Which destinations are worth your time, and which historical hotspots are currently enjoying their moment in the spotlight? Find out here – and get some expert practical advice on making the most out of your trip. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As celebrations for the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth unfold, we're exploring one of the places she called home: Bath. In this special episode, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by Bath-based historian and writer Kirsten Elliott to explore the local history on her doorstep. Together they journey past Roman baths, medieval walls, and the elegant Georgian Royal Crescent – and, of course, check out some traditional English pubs along the way. They also meet some of the characters who shaped the city, from famed writers to postal pioneers. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From medieval Islamic roots and conquest by successive dynasties, to French colonial rule and a modern evolution, Marrakech has a rich heritage – and many eye-catching monuments. Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield takes a trip to Marrakech with author and publisher Barnaby Rogerson – heading through the souks and alleys of the ancient Medina, past tanneries, mosques and the Islamic madrasas. Along the way, they also meet some of the characters who played key roles in the development of the Moroccan city and discover lesser-known places to visit for insights into its heritage. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield and historian Laila Ellmoos explore the history of an iconic Australian tourist destination – Sydney. Together they introduce the Aboriginal peoples; traditional owners and custodians of the land on which the city now stands. Laila also highlights the spectacular natural harbour that attracted the attention of British navigators and colonisers and discusses the settlement’s transformation into a global city. Along the way, they'll also meet key figures who played major roles in the development of Sydney and seek out the city’s lesser-known sites that reveal important insights into the past. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Beijing’s history stretches back many centuries, so how has it survived and become the rapidly changing capital of one of the world's fastest-growing economies? Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield joins writer and broadcaster Jonathan Clements on a journey through Beijing’s extraordinarily lengthy history, exploring its walls, palaces, bridges, and historic neighbourhoods. Along the way, they’ll meet some of the figures who played pivotal roles in Beijing’s story and discover lesser-known places to visit for insights into its heritage. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From early Taino inhabitants to Spanish colonisation and capture by the British, through the era of the transatlantic slave trade up to independence and the growth of the modern city, Kingston is a city with lots of legacies. Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield and historian Audra A Diptree explore the major turning points in the Jamaican capital’s history, seeking out places where they can catch a glimpse of those pivotal episodes. Along the way, they track down some of the characters who shaped the city's past and its diverse heritage, and also discover the sounds and flavours that bring Kingston’s rich culture to life. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Buenos Aires is a diverse and multinational city with a short but vibrant history. In this episode, academic Jason Wilson leads travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield through the barrios of the Argentine capital to uncover what makes it so fascinating. Together they revisit the founding of the settlement by European colonisers and discuss the waves of development and further immigration that created the great polyglot metropolis we know today. They'll also meet some of the characters who came, saw and conquered the city, discover places to visit for insights into Buenos Aires’ past, and offer some insider travel tips. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Historian Kara Schlichting leads travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield through the diverse stories of the city which we now know as the ‘Five Boroughs’ – New York City. Together, they introduce the indigenous peoples who first utilised the area, and the Europeans who established settlements. They explore the expanding horizons of Manhattan Island and beyond, discussing trade, slavery, conflict, transport, communications, architecture, infrastructure and more. Along the way, Paul and Kara delve into new ways of viewing this now iconic metropolis, revealing what makes this endlessly fascinating place so unique. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Pye roams the streets of the Belgian city dominated by a medieval fortress and graced by Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance monuments Renowned for its busy port and leading role in the diamond trade, Antwerp's story has plenty of booms and busts that shaped both its physical form and its psyche. Historian and author Michael Pye leads travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield around Flanders’ leading city, virtually exploring its old centre, market squares and stately thoroughfares. Along the way, they’ll meet some of the figures who played key roles in the development of Antwerp, and seek out spots to enjoy typical food and drink. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Barcelona may be well known for the bustling La Rambla, Gaudi's soaring Sagrada Família and, of course, its lively bars and restaurants, but that’s not all there is to there is to the historic Spanish city. Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield joins historian Andrew Dowling to explore not just the iconic thoroughfares and medieval gothic quarter, but also the less-visited sites that speak of pivotal episodes and eras, or reflect the city’s proud Catalan culture and heritage. Along the way, they’ll also meet some of the people who helped shape Barcelona, as well as seeking out spots to enjoy favoured food and drink. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How did the world’s greatest cities become just that – great? Was it location, determination or simple serendipity? This is the question behind History’s Greatest Cities, from HistoryExtra. Join travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield for the latest series, as he ventures to great cities in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas – all in the company of expert guides with rich local and historical knowledge. Along the way, they’ll meet some of the colourful characters who played key roles in shaping these cities and take in the most captivating historical sites – from temples and palaces to markets and museums. They’ll also sample the cultural delights of each place and share insider tips to help visitors discover little-known facets of these extraordinary destinations. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: On Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4fgRA1d Anywhere Else: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/ This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vicious civil wars. Gruelling sieges. Rebellious provinces, galling betrayals and tribes seeking revenge… Join us for the first series of History’s Greatest Battles, where we’re heading back to the Roman empire. Emily Briffett is joined by historian Dr Adrian Goldsworthy to look back at five of the most fascinating clashes of this ancient civilisation, taking in the action blow by blow and identifying the major moments and key commanders that shaped events. They’ll also be uncovering what the military engagements of this mighty superpower can reveal about the age of the emperors, and asking: how history might have turned out differently had things gone the other way? Series 1 is live now. Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/historys-greatest-battles/id1794311126 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ph7KUocWnqPREhTZa44Mb Listen everywhere else by searching: History's Greatest Battles You can listen ad-free, access episodes early and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://apple.co/4fgRA1d. History's Greatest Cities returns soon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices