A columnist from the Irish Times discusses how the Republic of Ireland has become a modern, progressive nation. A journalist from Utah explores ancient Roman roads connecting Rome with Istanbul and shares his experience walking on them.
Ireland has undergone significant social, economic, and cultural changes while maintaining a strong national identity.
The ancient Roman road network, such as the Via Appia and Via Ignatia, played a crucial role in trade, military movements, and cultural exchange.
The engineering prowess of the Romans is evident in their well-constructed roads, some of which are still in use today, showcasing their lasting impact.
Deep dives
The Ancient Roman Roads and the Transformation of Ireland
The podcast episode explores the profound changes that occurred in Ireland during Fenton O'Toole's lifetime, highlighting the transformation from a reactionary backwater to a globalized and well-educated nation. The episode emphasizes the importance of being honest about oneself and how Ireland's history of struggle and resilience has shaped its identity. It discusses the economic boom, investment in education, and the impact of the Catholic Church in Ireland. Overall, the episode presents Ireland as a country that has undergone significant social, economic, and cultural changes while maintaining a strong national identity.
Following the Ancient Roman Roads from Rome to Istanbul
The podcast episode features John Kehey's journey along the ancient Roman roads, particularly the Via Appia and the Via Ignatia, which connected Rome with Istanbul. Kehey describes the engineering marvels of these roads and the historical significance of their construction. He explores the impact of these roads on trade, military movements, and the growth of the Roman Empire. The episode also highlights the modern experience of traveling these ancient routes, visiting preserved sections of the roads, and the cultural and historical sites along the way.
The Impact and Legacy of Ancient Roman Engineering
The podcast episode delves into the engineering achievements of the ancient Romans, focusing on their impressive road network spanning thousands of miles. These well-engineered roads were primarily built for military purposes but soon became vital for trade and civilian travel. The episode discusses the complex engineering techniques used by the Romans, such as multiple layers of construction and the incorporation of drainage systems. It also highlights the long-lasting impact of Roman engineering, with many of their roads still in use today and serving as a testament to their engineering prowess.
The Journey from Rome to Constantinople and the Empire's Eastern Capital
The podcast episode follows the journey from Rome to Constantinople along the ancient Roman roads, particularly the Via Appia and the Via Ignatia. It explores the historical context of the establishment of Constantinople as the eastern capital of the Roman Empire, charting the split between the western and eastern empires. The episode highlights the significance of these roads in connecting the two capitals and facilitating trade, military movements, and cultural exchange. It emphasizes the architectural marvels and historical sites to be discovered along this route, offering a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Roman world.
Rediscovering Ancient Roman Sites and the Fascination of History
The podcast episode shares the personal experiences of Fenton and John as they explore ancient Roman sites and remnants of the Roman road network. It highlights the excitement of walking on the same stones that prominent historical figures once trod upon. The episode showcases their interactions with local experts, archaeologists, and tour guides who provide deep insights and access to lesser-known sites. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving and studying the past, recognizing the enduring influence of Roman culture and engineering on modern societies.
A columnist for the Irish Times discusses the dramatic recent changes in public opinion and attitude in Republic of Ireland, and how he's seen it become a modern, progressive nation over his lifetime. And a journalist from Utah tells us how to find some of the roadways the ancient Romans built to connect outposts of their empire — all the way to Istanbul.
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