The Ancients

<p>It is one of the most pivotal inventions in human history - the wheel.</p><br><p>New research suggests that the wheel was first created by prehistoric miners in the Carpathian Mountains to transport copper. Tristan Hughes speaks to the team behind this fascinating theory; archaeologist Dr Richard Bulliet, and computational engineer Dr Kai James. They take a fascinating journey through ancient innovations and cutting-edge science to reveal when the wheel was first created and by who - questions that have fascinated historians for decades, if not centuries.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer and audio editor is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p>All music from Epidemic Sounds</p><br><p><strong>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong> </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The prehistoric archaeology of South America is fascinating and constantly developing.</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr. Tom Dillehay to discuss how early humans navigated their migration from North to South America, adapting to diverse environments and leaving a rich archaeological record that challenges long-standing theories, including human footprints dating back 10,000 years.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer and audio editor is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p>All music from Epidemic Sounds.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong> </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Before Rome came the Etruscans - they were the dominant culture in ancient Italy in the centuries before Rome's imperial expansion. But how did they fall?</p><br><p>In this episode of the Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by archeologist Lucy Shipley to chronicle the decline of this once mighty ancient superpower that ruled the Mediterranean for hundreds of years. Together, they dive into the rich archaeological evidence that the Etruscans have left behind, including tomb paintings and pottery and explore how the legacy of Etruscan culture endured under harsh Roman rule.</p><br><p>To listen to Lucy's previous appearance on The Ancients - The Etruscans - click <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-ancients/episode/69a18709147944369a0ceba1aa7a68e7ffd8427f/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a></p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong> </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey at <a href="https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK</a>.</p><br><p>All music courtesy of Epidemic Sound</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Tower of Babel story is iconic. Featured in the Book of Genesis, it explains how different languages came to be across the world. But what are its origins?</p><br><p>Join Tristan Hughes and Prof. Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones in this special episode of The Ancients - recorded live at the London Podcast Festival - as they delve into the biblical roots of the myth and uncover the real archeological remains that inspired the fable. They explore how ancient ziggurats influenced depictions of the tower, discuss the intersection between history and faith and discover how age-old texts and modern archaeology combine to unravel the mysteries behind the story of the Tower of Babel.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</p><br><p>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</a>. </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey at <a href="https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK</a>.</p><br><p>Music courtesy of Epidemic Sound.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>A group of hunter-gatherers encounter diverse habitats full of creatures they’ve never seen before. A land of opportunity, but also danger.</p><br><p>Join host Tristan Hughes and expert Dr David Meltzer as they delve into the Ice Age in North America, over 10,000 years ago, a land of saber toothed tigers, direwolves, woolly mammoths, mastodons. They discuss how ancient DNA is revolutionising our understanding of human displacement and extinction events and how these explorers adapted to their new world.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong> </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey at <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK</a>.</p><br><p>All music courtesy of Epidemic Sound.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p><br></p><p>Denzel Washington stars as Emperor Macrinus in the epic new movie Gladiator II, but who exactly was this shadowy ruler of Rome?</p><br><p>Join Tristan Hughes as he sits down with Dr Alex Imrie and Matilda Brown to explore the real story behind this lesser-known usurper of Rome, a North African-born knight who toppled the fratricidal tyrant Caracalla and took the throne for himself. Discover the dramatic and brutal events that shaped Macrinus' reign, including his conflict with the powerful women of the Severan dynasty and the fateful battles that sealed his fate. </p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong> </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>All music courtesy of Epidemic Sound.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The new Hollywood blockbuster Gladiator II features two of Rome's most villainous emperors - the brothers Caracalla and Geta.</p><br><p>And in today's episode of The Ancients were delving into the real history of these scheming siblings. Their story is a blood-stained and chilling one. It stretches from their opulent upbringing to their tumultuous rivalry and culminates with a brutal murder in front of their very own mother in 211 AD. Joined by Alex Imrie, Tristan explores how much we really know about Caracalla and Geta, their rise to power and their relationship - or perhaps lack of one.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe</u></strong></a><strong>.</strong> </p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Half man and half bull, the Minotaur is one of the most famous, and scariest, monsters of Greek mythology.</p><br><p>The story goes that it was trapped in a great labyrinth beneath Knossos on the island of Crete and feasted on human flesh until it was slain by the hero Theseus with the help of the princess Ariadne. But what exactly was the minotaur? What did the Ancients Greeks perceive it to be? In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes talks to Caroline Lawrence to delve deep into this mythology, and the complex and enduring legacy the Minotaur still holds in modern media today.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, it was produced by Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Today, we often see the Amazon basin as an endless expanse of trees and rainforest. But 2,000 years ago, at the same time that great cities like Rome, Athens and Alexandria were at their height, this massive area of South America was home to a huge range of landscapes, biodiversity and ancient Amazonian civilisations.</p><br><p>In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by author and journalist Laurence Blair - whose new book <em>Patria: Lost Countries of South America </em>is out today - to explore the extraordinary cultures that lived all across the ancient Amazon basin and unpack stories of agriculture, farming and fish-fuelled cities that go back 8,000 years.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, it was produced by Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>From the arrival of the first humans reaching the Japanese archipelago some 50,000 years ago to the enduring Jomon culture, Japan has a fascinating prehistory. This is discovered in the rich archaeological record that includes stone circles, intricate ceramics and evidence of the incredibly diverse hunter-gatherer lifestyle that was mastered.</p><br><p>Join Tristan Hughes and archaeologist Dr. Simon Kaner to explore the incredible archaeological discoveries and the ongoing debates about Japan's ancient past, revealing a complex tapestry of cultural evolution long before the advent of rice farming.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, it was produced by Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>When they were discovered in the Qumran Caves in the mid-20th century, the Dead Sea Scrolls revolutionised our understanding of biblical history. But one particular scroll was different. It was not written on parchment or papyrus like the other scrolls, but on metal - 99% copper and 1% tin.</p><br><p>In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes visits Jordan so see the this fascinating Copper Scroll in person, and then interviews Prof. Joan Taylor to unlock the mysteries contained within it - not least a map and directions to some undiscovered ancient treasure.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It’s 279 BC. On a large plain in Southern Italy near the town of Asculum, a famous Greek warlord likened to Alexander the Great faces down the legions of the Roman Republic. His name was Pyrrhus of Epirus. And the victory that he won at Asculum would come to define his legacy.</p><br><p>In this instalment of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr. Louis Rawlings to dive into the cauldron of political intrigue and backstabbing that followed the death of Alexander the Great and talk through the story of Pyrrhus, his battles against Romans, Carthaginians, Sicilians, Greeks and how he managed to win the first ever 'Pyrrhic Victory'.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In this instalment of The Ancients we're going north of the Arctic circle to uncover the incredible story of the Thule Inuit. Expanding out from present day Alaska east across North America all the way to Greenland more than 1,000 years ago, the early Inuit managed to survive and thrive in freezing cold conditions. But how exactly did they do so? What did they hunt? And how did they live?</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes invites archeologist Raven Todd daSilva onto the podcast to explore the lifestyle of some of the Arctic's earliest inhabitants - from the sophisticated subterranean houses they built to the huge range of gadgets that they used to hunt whales, bears, caribou and seals. It is a gripping tale of survival, but also one of astonishing ancient innovation.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In the aftermath of Alexander the Great’s death his former generals carved out their own kingdoms in the chaos that was the Wars of the Successors. Arguably the most successful of those successors Ptolemy is today's subject, the general who came from Alexander’s deathbed in Babylon to claim one of the richest jewels of Alexander’s empire.</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes invites Dr Toby Wilkinson to discuss the man who took Egypt as his prize and laid the foundations for the last ancient dynasty of Egypt.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>What was the most popular sporting spectacle in ancient Rome? Gladiator bouts? Beast hunts? It was in fact chariot racing! For centuries the Romans were enraptured by the galloping of horses and the thill of the chase. And it all took place in perhaps Rome's greatest arena. A massive racetrack that could hold over 100,000 spectators - The Circus Maximus.</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Matthew Nicholls to discover all there is to know about this famous ancient sporting amphitheatre, how it came into being and how chariot racing captured the minds of the Roman people.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Edomites are in the Old Testament, an ancient people who lived around Petra, Jordan before the Nabateans and before Petra was even created. King Herod was a descendant of the Edomites, and perhaps most infamously they are remembered for supporting the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar, rejoicing when he sacked Jerusalem in the 6th century BC.</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes is joined by archaeologist Dr Matthew Vincent, who has been excavating tombs in Petra, to discuss what is known about the Edomites as archaeology and newly-discovered written sources reveal fascinating insights into how they lived.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Max Carrey. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>: <a href="https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK</a></p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Tristan Hughes and his guest Dr. Joyce Tyldesley OBE are heading to the Underworld for the final installation of The Ancients exploration of the Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt. They encounter the infamous jackal-headed deity Anubis, analyse Egyptian archaeology and discuss the origins of mummification, the Book of the Dead and the weighing of hearts.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited and produced by Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. Scriptwriter is Andrew Hulse. Voice Actor is Menna Elbezawy.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>One of the most famous and recognisable Persian kings of antiquity, Darius the Great was an Achaemenid superstar, ruling the Achaemenid Persian Empire some 2,500 years ago. His tale is preserved in the writings of the Greek historian Herodotus; Darius’ story stretches from India to Ukraine and the Great Steppe.</p><br><p>Reverend Professor Lloyd LLewellyn-Jones joins Tristan Hughes to discuss the rise, reign and fall of one of the most extraordinary Persian kings; Darius I, ‘Darius the Great’.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Max Carrey and produced by Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The story of Osiris and how he became King of the Dead is a gruesome tale and one of the most famous legends from Egyptian mythology.</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Campbell Price to explore the myth which culminates in a divine and bloody battle between the God of Chaos Set and Osiris’ son Horus.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited and produced by Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. Scriptwriter is Andrew Hulse. Voice Actor is Menna Elbezawy.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It’s 146 BC. Fire rises high over the North African coast. The once-thriving port city of Carthage is burning. Thousands of Roman soldiers have breached the defences and swarmed into the city, intent on wiping this city from the face of the earth. This is the fall of Carthage.</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Eve MacDonald to plot the steps that lead to the Romans ruthlessly crushing this ancient Mediterranean power, once and for all. In the infamous words of the Roman statesman Cato the Elder; ‘Carthago Delenda Est’ - Carthage Must be Destroyed’</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited and produced by Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Isis, Hathor, Sekhmet and Bastet were adored and honoured in Ancient Egypt, with their stories passed between thousands of followers and down through the generations through spoken word and painted hieroglyph. But there weren't simply maternal, wifely, caring deitites. They could also transform into deadly beasts and deliver horrific vengeance when crossed.</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes is joined by archaeologist and Egyptologist Dr. Joyce Tyldesley to unravel the myths of these ancient Egyptian goddesses.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. Scriptwriter is Andrew Hulse. Voice Actor is Menna Elbezawy.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>67 million years ago the most famous meat-eating dinosaur prowled the earth - the Tyrannosaurus Rex. At it's full size, this prehistoric apex predator was taller than a double decker bus and weighed more than seven tonnes, whilst it's teeth were the size of bananas. But how much do we actually know about this so called 'King of the Dinosaurs'?</p><br><p>In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Steve Brusatte to explore the ins and outs of this most iconic of dinosaurs - from their tiny little arms to their fossilised poo.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Of all the Egyptian Gods it is Ra, the God of the Sun, who is perhaps most well known in the popular imagination. He is said to have voyaged across the sky on his solar barge and then come nightfall descended into the underworld to battle all sorts of monstrous creatures. But Ra is a complicated character. He is often fused with other Egyptian gods and transformed into different solar deities entirely. So who really is he? And where do the tales about him come from?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients - the second in our 5 part series on Egyptian Gods and Goddesses - Tristan Hughes is joined by Egyptologist Campbell Price to unpack to story of Ra and the Sun Gods and explore the deity who the Ancient Egyptians arguably revered most highly.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. The script writer is Andrew Hulse. The voice actor is Menna Elbezawy </p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In the early 5th century AD, after almost four centuries of iron-fisted Roman rule, the empire in Britain was beginning to fade. Franks, Saxons and Roman usurpers were running rampant. Britannia was on its last legs and in 410 AD, the Britons were told to ‘look to their own defences’.</p><br><p>However the story of the fall of Roman Britain is far more complex than the traditional tale of swift Roman withdrawal. In today's episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Rob Collins and Dr James Gerrard to journey from Londinium to Hadrians Wall and unpick the ultimate fate of Roman Britannia.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The legends of Ra and Hathor, of Osiris and Isis, of Anubis and Set have been passed from mouth to ear in Egypt for millennia. They were painted on temple walls, etched on delicate papyrus and discovered at the heart of the pyramids. But who were the Gods of Egypt? How did their myths originate? And from where did the ancient Egyptians believe their Gods came from?</p><br><p>On the Ancients this September and October - across five special episodes - join Tristan Hughes to delve into the meaning of these stories and unpack Egypt's mysterious deities. In today's episode he is joined by Egyptologist Joyce Tyldesley to kick off the series and explore the origins of the Gods and their enthralling creation story.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. Scriptwriter is Andrew Hulse. Voice Actor is Menna Elbezawy.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>2000 years ago, in the year 9 AD, a Roman Army walked into a trap deep in wilds of Germania. Over 15,000 men were massacred at Teutoburg Forest, making it one of the bloodiest ambushes in history. But what happened next? </p><br><p>Today's episode of the Ancients continues the terrifying story we began last week, as Tristan Hughes is joined by a host of leading experts to analyse the moves that played out on the battlefield, and the earth-shattering consequences that came after.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Ancient India was <em>the</em><strong><em> </em></strong>single greatest trading partner of the Roman Empire. For centuries, Indian sailors navigated the Indian Ocean and Red Sea to bring goods, ideas and religious beliefs to the Greco-Roman ports based on the Egyptian coast. But how did this lucrative trade begin? And what sorts of goods passed along it?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by William Dalrymple to explore 'The Golden Road' - one of the great trade routes of ancient history - and discover how India became the beating heart of the ancient world.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Tristan Hughes travels to the site of the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, one of the most epic defeats of the Roman army when an alliance of Germanic peoples ambushed three Roman legions.</p><br><p>Across two episodes leading experts analyse every move leading up to those terrifying days in early September 9 AD, deep in the Teutoburg Forest. All stemming from the Roman Invasion of Germany.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Despite being one of the most visited historic spots on the planet today, Petra was once a so-called ‘lost city,’ hidden from western eyes in a vast desert landscape for hundreds of years.</p><br><p>What is the story of this rose-red ancient city and its inhabitants? The powerful Nabataean civilisation who built Petra more than two thousand years ago, but remain a mystery to so many today.</p><br><p>Who were their kings? Their gods and goddesses? And how were they able to turn an arid desert into a green oasis?</p><br><p>In this special episode, Tristan Hughes goes to Petra in Jordan, one of the seven wonders of the world, to discover the secrets himself.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Written and produced by Charlotte Long. Mixed and edited by Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p>Special thanks to Visit Jordan, Matthew Vincent and Jodi Magness.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> HERE</strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>https://historyhit.com/subscription</strong></a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The word 'Sirens' conjures up many images, possibly of beautiful mermaid-like creatures luring sailors to their watery deaths. These ancient Greek mythical creatures, linked to the Queen of the Underworld Persephone, feature in well known myths such as Jason and the Argonauts and Homer’s story of Odysseus - <em>The Odyssey. </em>But their popular modern portrayal as 'sexy maidens' does not originate from ancient Greece, that is a much later invention. </p><br><p>Sarah Clegg joins Tristan Hughes to discuss the story of the Sirens and how their legacy is intertwined with a number of other mythical creatures such as nymphs, the Mesopotamian demoness Lilith and, of course mermaids.</p><br><p>Listen to Tristan and Sarah Clegg's previous episode on Lillith here: https://podfollow.com/the-ancients/episode/83e3167b27baefea4d862da99ce26425ba43e291/view</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It's one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the world. But did you know that beer is also one of the world's oldest beverages, with a history that stretches back more than 10,000 years. Beer was the beverage of choice for a whole host of ancient Bronze Age civilisations arrayed across Mesopotamia. But why did cities like Babylon and Uruk become the first great beer drinking cultures in history? And what traces of this love of alcohol did they leave behind?</p><br><p>In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Prof. Tate Paulette to discover how those living on the plains of ancient Mesopotamia bred such a love for liquid amber and explore how exactly they brewed it.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Cats! These much loved furry friends have brightened people’s lives for millenia. And it was the same in ancient times. They were pets. They were pest control against rats. They were even in some cases considered sacred. But how did they become the pet of choice for homes the world over? And why were they first domesticated?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Professor James Serpell, an anthrozoologist from the University of Pennsylvania to delve into the origins of the First Cats and explore how they evolved from self-sufficient wildcats to the lovable felines we're familiar with today.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It is the most famous monument of ancient Greece. Its remains standing tall above modern Athens today, more than 2,000 years old. The Parthenon. A temple, treasury, the residence of a powerful general after Alexander the Great’s death…and his courtesans, a church, a mosque, a gunpowder store, a tourist site. It’s safe to say that the Parthenon has had a pretty fascinating story over the past two and a half millennia. Not to mention the amazing art and architecture of the building that continues to awe people down to the present day. In this episode of our sister podcast Echoes of History, our very own Tristan Hughes joins Matt Lewis to find out more.</p><br><p>Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast. Listen to the Echoes of History podcast </em><a href="https://podfollow.com/echoes-of-history/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>here</em></a><em>.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Overlooking the Argolid Plain in the eastern Peloponnese, Mycenae was once the envy of the Mediterranean world. It rose to prominence in the late Bronze Age, centuries before the great Greek states of Athens, Sparta and Corinth, and is known as the birthplace of mythical bronze age figures such as Agammemnon, King of the Greeks. But how do know so much about it? What remains of this once glittering Greek citadel?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Jorrit Kelder to talk through Mycenae's archeology - from its Cyclopaean stone walls and monumental Tholos tombs, to it’s golden face masks and great lion entrance gate.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Peter Dennis and Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit Podcast</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Known as one of Rome's worst emperors, Commodus is famed for both his infamy and bravado. Ascending the throne as a teenager, he dressed up as Hercules, fought as a gladiator in the Colosseum, and renamed Rome after himself. But who was the real Commodus? And was he really as bad and megalomaniacal as some have claimed?</p><br><p>In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Alex Imrie to dive into the conspiracies, controversy and assassinations that made the reign of Commodus so chillingly captivating and inspired the performance of Joaquin Phoenix in the 2000 sword and sandal epic ‘Gladiator’.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Olympics. It’s the most famous sporting event in the world, and the 33rd Olympiad is taking place in Paris right now. But how did it all begin?</p><br><p>It's a story that takes us back more than 2,000 years. Featuring mythological heroes like Heracles, ancient athletes that became celebrities and the great sanctuary of Olympia in western Greece, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr. Judith Swaddling to delve into the origins of the Olympic Games, uncovering how they were founded and what the earliest Olympics looked like.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>As both the eldest and youngest child of the great titan Kronos, and the Greek goddess of hearth and home, Hestia was incredibly important in almost every sphere of Greek daily life. But she is arguably one of the most overlooked deities in the Greek Pantheon. The question we're asking today is why.</p><br><p>In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined once again by the University of Bristol’s Dr Ellie Mackin-Roberts as they delve into the elusive, but fascinating figure of Hestia and uncover just how Hestia could be the eldest and youngest Greek God all at the same time.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. The scriptwriter is Andrew Hulse. The voice actor is Nichola Wooley.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Just over 1,000 years ago, the ancient Maya world in Mesoamerica was turned upside down. Prominent cities like Tikal, Palenque, Copan and Calakmul, their great stone art and architecture left to be gradually reclaimed by the jungle. It's a time of decline known as the Maya Collapse. But what caused it? And did the entirety of Mayan civilisation really disappear?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients Tristan Hughes is joined by podcaster and author Paul Cooper to explore this historic, yet mysterious collapse and delve into the trade networks, water systems, climate change, agricultural failure and civil unrest that made it possible.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The ferocious, professional fighters who fought in great arenas all across the Roman Empire for the pleasure of the crowd were the celebrities of their day. They were sex symbols and yet they also ranked amongst the lowest in Roman society. Today the gladiator is one of the great images of ancient Rome but who exactly were they and what do we know about them?</p><br><p>Gladiator expert and historical consultant Alexander Mariotti joins Tristan Hughes to reveal the mind-blowing truth stories of these Roman professional fighters; from origins to lifestyle, to training and just how likely it was for a gladiator to be slain in the arena.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Max Carrey and Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>For more than 100,000 years, Neanderthals made their home in Ice Age Britain, right on the edge of the inhabitable world. But what evidence do we have for this early species in what is today Britain?</p><br><p>Dr Matthew Pope from UCL joins Tristan Hughes to discuss this fascinating period pre-history; Neanderthal Britain. What do we know about these people's lifestyles, how long were they here for and what ultimately happened to them?</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>The Ancients is recording our first LIVE SHOW at the London Podcast Festival on Thursday 5th September 2024! </strong></p><p><strong>Book your tickets now to be in the audience and ask Tristan and his guest your burning questions. </strong></p><p><strong>Tickets on sale </strong><a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a> <a href="https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/the-ancients/</a></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Pyramid of the Sun is ancient America’s Great Pyramid of Giza. Built in the legendary city of Teotihuacán, and given its name by the Aztecs, this magnificent step pyramid is another great wonder of the ancient world. But who built it? And what for? </p><br><p>In today’s episode of The Ancients Tristan Hughes is joined by Annabeth Headrick, an expert on all things Teotihuacán to explore and uncover the mysteries that surround this massive Mesoamerican monument. </p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Do all roads lead to Rome? We find out in today's episode all about one of the Roman Empire's greatest legacies - it's web-like network of roads and route-ways. From the famous Via Appia, the longest road in mainland Italy, to Watling Street, the road on which Boudica was defeated, Rome's roads left an indelible mark on the territories their centurions conquered.</p><br><p>But what do we actually know about these ancient streets and pathways? What was road travel like back in Roman times? And most importantly, what was their equivalent of a service station?</p><br><p>To explain all this and much more Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Catherine Fletcher, author of a new book called <em>The Roads to Rome. </em></p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>It’s the end of the 12th century BC, and a once remarkable Near eastern world lay in ruin. Drought, warfare, famine, earthquakes, plague - all had combined to brutally devastate ancient civilisations stretching from Mesopotamia to Egypt to mainland Greece. </p><br><p>It was a catastrophe unlike anything else - a Bronze Age collapse. But that’s only half the story. What happened next? Would these people adapt to this new age of chaos?</p><br><p>Dr Eric Cline joins Tristan Hughes to discuss the dawn of the Iron Age. They’re talking Egyptians, Hittites, Mycenaeans, Cypriots, Phoenicians and many more.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Joseph Knight. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>More than 3,000 years ago, a coalition of Bronze Age rulers existed across the Near Eastern world. Kings reigning over great Bronze age powers like New Kingdom Egypt, Babylon and the Hittites coexisted and interacted with each other. They exchanged precious goods, signed treaties and even married into each other's families. But how exactly did this brotherhood of kings emerge? And how important was it to the history of the ancient Near East?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients Tristan Hughes is joined by Prof. Amanda Podany to talk about what has come to be known as the first ‘international age’.</p><p>Together they uncover how the brotherhood of kings ruled supreme across the Near Eastern world and explore why they built such a sophisticated and intricate web of diplomatic ties and connections.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up</strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> <u>HERE</u></strong></a><strong> for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘ANCIENTS’. </strong><a href="https://historyhit.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>https://historyhit.com/subscription</u></strong></a></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The crisis of the Roman Republic is a period littered with iconic male power players. Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, Pompey, Brutus and the Gracchi brothers. But less famous, and often overlooked are the women that shaped these famous Roman states<em>men</em>.</p><br><p>In today's episode of the Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr. Daisy Dunn to shine a light on some of the most remarkable women in Roman history. From Cornelia, the mother and tutor of the Gracchi brothers, to Fulvia, the wife of Mark Antony and a commander in the Perusine War, we take you on a journey through the lives and stories of four of Rome's foremost Domina.</p><br><p>Daisy Dunn's new book <em>The Missing Thread: A New History of the Ancient World Through the Women Who Shaped It </em>is out now in the UK and publishes 7/30 in the US.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscription/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Temple Mount is one of the most sacred places in Jerusalem. A rocky outcrop that has become important for Islam, Judaism and Christianity and the acropolis of the ancient city, with links to figures like King David, Solomon, Herod, Jesus and Muhammad. It’s an area of the world rich in religious history.</p><br><p>And in today's episode of The Ancients - the last in our Old Testament miniseries - we're going to be delving into the archaeology of this famous ancient site and exploring what remains of the glorious buildings that once sat atop this important mountain. To help, Tristan is joined by Jodi Magness, author of new book, <em>Jerusalem Through The Ages, </em>which<em> </em>chronicles the history of the holy city from its very beginnings to the Crusades.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a History Hit podcast.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscription/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The story of the ancient kingdom of Israel is a central part of the Old Testament. Famous for its kings like Saul, David and Solomon, the kingdom supposedly emerged in the southern Levant in the late 2nd millennium BC. Most of what we know about this kingdom comes from the Hebrew Bible. But what does the archeology say? Are there any remains that might corroborate what the bible tells us?</p><br><p>In today's episode of The Ancients, Tristan continues our Old Testament mini-series and interviews archeologist Felicity Cobbing. Together they delve into both the biblical narrative and the archaeological evidence in an attempt to answer some the questions that shroud the story of this biblical kingdom.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight, the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a podcast from History Hit.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscription/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Tristan Hughes continues the Greek Gods and Goddesses series with today’s deity; the most popular mythical hero of them all: Heracles, or Hercules. Same hero.</p><br><p>His story has never faded, reimagined in various media formats from Hollywood and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, to Disney, to The Ancients podcast. Professor Alastair Blanshard joins Tristan to discuss who Heracles was, what were some of the many myths surrounding this hero, and what were his 12 labours?</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes and produced by Joseph Knight. The audio editor is Aidan Lonergan and the senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. Scriptwriter is Andrew Hulse. Voice Actor is Nichola Wooley</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a podcast from History Hit.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscription/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Ark of the Covenant is one of the most famous, yet mysterious, objects mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. This special box that held the sacred 10 Commandments, written by God himself.</p><br><p>But what exactly was it? What stories are told about it? And, most intriguingly of all, what happened to it? Tristan Hughes visits the University of Cardiff and Dr Dylan Johnson to find out.</p><br><p>Presented by Tristan Hughes. The producer is Joseph Knight, audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a podcast from History Hit.</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscription/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Celts are an ancient people shrouded in mystery and intrigue. In the minds of most people the word ‘Celt’ refers to the people of Iron Age Britain, or the ferocious Galatians of central Turkey. But the original Celts were very different. They settled in places like southern France and northern Italy and came into direct contact with the Etruscans and the Greeks. So what do we know about these Iron Age Celts and their early Celtic world? </p><br><p>In today’s episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr. Rachel Pope to decode and decipher the origins of the Celts. Together they explore how these early Iron Age Celts spread from their ancestral lands in central France and how their unique Celtic culture evolved down the centuries, culminating with their sacking of Rome in the early 4th century BC. </p><br><p>This episode was produced by Joseph Knight and edited by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p><em>The Ancients is a podcast from History Hit</em></p><br><p><strong>Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up </strong><a href="https://www.historyhit.com/subscription/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><br><p>Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards <a href="https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>You can take part in our listener survey <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6FFT7MK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>