Explore the origins and rise of Carthage, from Princess Dido's founding to Carthage's naval dominance and expansion in Sicily. Delve into the controversial topic of child sacrifice, the city's rivalry with Rome, and its strategic importance for Mediterranean trade.
Carthage and Rome had complex relationships before their bitter enmity, with treaties and trade agreements dating back to 509 BC.
The ancient city of Carthage boasted a sophisticated urban center with seawalls, temples, multi-storied houses, and a diverse multicultural community.
Archaeological findings at Carthage have sparked debates about alleged child sacrifice practices, challenging our understanding of Carthaginian rituals.
Deep dives
The Myth of Dido and Aeneas
Dido, a beautiful queen, founded Carthage on the coast of Africa, while Aeneas, a hero from Troy, seeking refuge after the fall of Troy, landed on the shores of Africa. The two fell in love, but the gods intervened as Aeneas was destined to found Rome. Dido, heartbroken and shamed, curses Aeneas before committing suicide, paving the way for the inevitable clash between Carthage and Rome.
Earliest Interactions Between Carthage and Rome
Despite becoming bitter enemies during the Punic Wars, Carthage and Rome initially had treaties dating back to 509 BC, outlining spheres of influence and trade. The two powers had frequent contact, with evidence of trade and merchants moving between the cities prior to the conflicts that would define their history.
Early Carthaginian Cityscape
While specific details about the earlier cityscape of Carthage are limited, reports from later sources describe a majestic and sophisticated city. The city likely had seawalls, temples, multi-storied houses, public agora, and well-developed ports. The urban center reflected a mix of multicultural influences, pointing to a thriving and diverse community.
Child Sacrifice Controversy at Carthage
Archaeological findings at Carthage have sparked heated debates about alleged child sacrifice practices. The presence of urns filled with cremated remains of children and animals, along with dedicatory steely stones, has raised questions about whether this was related to ritual sacrifice or commemorated natural child mortality. The site continues to intrigue researchers and challenge our understanding of Carthaginian practices.
Dido's Role in Carthage's History
While the historical accuracy of Queen Dido's role in Carthage's founding remains uncertain, connections to the Tyrian royal family suggest a credible link. Stories of Dido's interactions with Aeneas and her tragic fate have immortalized her as a central figure in the intertwined histories of Carthage and Rome, shaping the enduring mythos of both civilizations.
Famed as one of Rome’s fiercest enemies, the city of Carthage was one of the jewels of the ancient Mediterranean world. Situated on the coast of North Africa on the tip of what is now Tunisia, it first rose to prominence as a Phoenician colony. But how did this once fledgling outpost rise to claim it’s ancient pre-eminence?
In this episode of the Ancients, Tristan Hughes is once again joined by Dr. Eve MacDonald to explore the origins of this most famous of ancient cities and tell the story of how Princess Dido of Tyre journeyed across the seas to found the future home of Hannibal, bane of Rome.
This episode was produced by Elena Guthrie and Joseph Knight and edited by Aidan Lonergan. Scriptwriter: Andrew Hulse
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