Ancient Civilisations

Thierry Do Espirito, a historian and author of The Knights Templar for Dummies, delves into the enigmatic world of the Knights Templar. He uncovers the origins of this once-feared military order formed to protect pilgrims in perilous times. Thierry reveals how the Templars amassed immense wealth and became medieval bankers while maintaining strict vows of poverty. The discussion also highlights their rise and fall, particularly King Philip IV's political machinations that led to the Templar’s demise, and the enduring myths surrounding their legacy.

In this engaging discussion, historian Dian Murray reveals the fascinating life of Zheng Yi Sao, the formidable Pirate Queen of the South China Sea. She explores how Zheng's early life on the water granted women unique freedoms and shaped her path into piracy. Listeners learn about the massive size of her fleet, the strategic organization of pirates, and the tactics they used to challenge the Qing dynasty. Murray also delves into why Zheng's legacy was overshadowed by Western pirates, highlighting her ambitious reign and later life.

Salima Ikram, a leading Egyptologist at the American University in Cairo, dives into the wonders of ancient pyramids. She reveals the motivations behind pyramid construction, linking them to religious symbolism and origin myths. Ikram discusses the architectural genius of Imhotep's Step Pyramid and the Great Pyramid, emphasizing their striking designs and complex interiors. The conversation also explores the societal impacts of pyramid-building, the shift to the Valley of the Kings, and the enduring legacy of these monumental structures in Egyptian culture.

After a bloody battle on September 22nd, 1877, Saigo Takamori and his loyal warriors pause on a hillside overlooking Kagoshima. They’ll never surrender, but they’re wounded, exhausted, and massively outnumbered, and Saigo already knows how this will end. Because his noble Samurai army aren’t just fighting the Emperor’s gun-wielding forces. They’re fighting progress itself. And that’s a battle they cannot win. But were the Samurai really a class of elite martial artists, driven by unbreakable codes of chivalry and loyalty? Or, behind the propaganda, just a self-important militia of romanticised thugs? A Noiser production, written by Joe Viner. With thanks to Jonathan Clements, historian, and author of A Brief History of the Samurai. For ad-free listening, exclusive content, and early access to new episodes across the Noiser network, join Noiser+. Now available for Apple and Android users. Click the subscription banner at the top of the feed to get started. Or go to noiser.com/subscriptions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Dicus, a Professor of Classical Archeology at the University of Oregon, dives into the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. He vividly describes life in Pompeii before the chaos, capturing the vibrant culture and impending tensions. Listeners learn about the frantic escape efforts and the sheer devastation that transformed the city into ruins. Dicus also reveals the archaeological significance of Pompeii, exploring how this disaster preserved a snapshot of ancient Roman life for future generations.

Journey into Ancient Rome to uncover the fierce world of gladiators, from their brutal training to their role as both celebrities and outcasts. Discover the gripping story of Spartacus, a gladiator turned rebel, and the complex dynamics of gladiatorial games that fascinated the Roman populace. Dive into the dark reality of combat, where survival often depended on skill and luck. Learn about the deceptive fame of figures like Commodus and how societal shifts led to the decline of these violent spectacles as Christianity gained influence.

Marc David Baer, a Professor of International History at the London School of Economics, shares captivating insights on the Ottoman Empire's rise and fall. He discusses Mehmed II's strategic siege of Constantinople and the empire's complex cultural dynamics, including the intriguing world of the harem. Baer also highlights the empire's peak under Suleiman the Magnificent, its innovative social structures, and the challenges that led to its decline. The discussion culminates in the empire's impactful role during World War I and the subsequent birth of modern Turkey.

Join Dr. Christopher Farrell, an Assistant Professor of Greek History and Culture at University College Dublin, as he explores the grandeur and decline of the First Persian Empire. Discover how Cyrus's military genius and political strategies birthed an empire stretching over three continents. Learn about Cambyses II's naval feats and the sophistication of Darius I's governance. The conversation also delves into the chilling court intrigues and Alexander's relentless rise that led to Achaemenid downfall, shaping the legacy of one of history’s first superpowers.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was a testament to human ingenuity and architectural brilliance. Built in the third century BC on the small island of Pharos, it was the first lighthouse in recorded history and the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Standing over 100 metres high, it provided a vital beacon for sailors navigating the treacherous waters of the Mediterranean Sea. But who built the lighthouse? How did it change during its 17 centuries overlooking the city? And, after its final collapse in the 1300s, how does its legend still endure? A Noiser Production, written by Nicola Rayner. With thanks to Professor Islam Issa, British-Egyptian historian, and the author of Alexandria: The City that Changed the World. For ad-free listening, exclusive content, and early access to new episodes across the Noiser network, join Noiser+. Now available for Apple and Android users. Click the Noiser+ banner on Apple or go to noiser.com/subscriptions to get started with a free trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After its initial discovery in 1974, the Terracotta Army became the unofficial eighth wonder of the world. Comprising an estimated 8,000 statue warriors buried as part of the First Emperor of China’s tomb complex, experts are still unearthing its secrets. But what was the purpose of so many clay soldiers? How were they made, and by whom? And what do we know about the Emperor considered so important that his death demanded a project on this scale? A Noiser production, written by Duncan Barrett. With thanks to Eugene Wang, Professor of Asian Art at Harvard University; and Andrew Bevan, Professor of Comparative Archaeology at University College London. For ad-free listening, exclusive content, and early access to new episodes across the Noiser network, join Noiser+. Now available for Apple and Android users. Click the Noiser+ banner on Apple or go to noiser.com/subscriptions to get started with a free trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices