The History of Byzantium

I talk to historical fiction author Gordon Doherty about his Byzantine book series 'Strategos.' We talk about inspiration and research but also what advice he'd give to aspiring writers.We also give you the chance to win a copy of the first book in the Strategos trilogy.Find out more about Gordon and his other book series (including more Roman era stories) at his website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While I'm away on the third 'History of Byzantium' tour I thought it was time to talk to the man behind them - Şerif Yenen. Şerif has been a tour guide in Istanbul for decades and has published many excellent books on the subject. He has also gone online to share his love for travel through podcasts and Youtube videos. I talk to Serif about his career and ask him listener questions about what to do and see in Turkey.Contact me if you'd like to be on the mailing list for future 'History of Byzantium' tours.Check out Şerif's Youtube channel and his podcast 'Turkish Odyssey.' Or visit his website to find out more about his books, lectures and tours around Turkey.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 2022 Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer listener questions about Manuel's reign.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel deals with the aftermath of the Battle of Myriokephalon. He is left out of an Italian peace conference and must negotiate a peace of his own in Anatolia. He continues his efforts to position Byzantium as a friend of the Latins. And we look at his church and financial policies.Period: 1176-80 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel launches a Crusade against the Turks of Iconium.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I have teamed up with Nitin Sil of the Flash Point History Youtube Channel. We are turning the podcast into a Youtube series with brilliant maps, images and animations accompanying my words. Check out our first video now https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2pQjfOebdI&t=2241s charting the rise of Justinian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While his armies were fighting in the Balkans Manuel's diplomats and fleets were busy elsewhere. Komnenos poured money into Italy to try and gain influence there. He considered alliances with the Germans, the Pope and the Normans but ultimately lost them all. He made war on Venice and tried to capture an Egyptian port.Period: 1161-73 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

History of Byzantium Tour - April 23 to May 2, 2022. The tour will visit Istanbul, Cappadocia and Ephesus. If you'd like to come or if you'd like to hear about future tours please email thehistoryofbyzantium@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel spends the 1160s at war with Hungary. During these campaigns the Emperor adopts the Hungarian King's brother making him his heir. This enables the Romans to seize Sirmium and parts of Dalmatia. The Hungarian elites won't stand for it and try to throw the Romans out.Period: 1161-72 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.