The Ancients
History Hit
A podcast for all ancient history fans! The Ancients is dedicated to discussing our distant past. Featuring interviews with historians and archaeologists, each episode covers a specific theme from antiquity. From Neolithic Britain to the Fall of Rome. Hosted by Tristan Hughes. New episodes every Sunday and Thursday.From History Hit, the world's best history channel and creators of award-winning podcasts Dan Snow's History Hit, Gone Medieval, and Betwixt the Sheets.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 https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
39 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 1h 5min
Roman Aqueducts
Dr. Duncan Keenan-Jones, a Professor at the University of Manchester and an expert in Roman aqueducts, joins to discuss these monumental feats of engineering. He explains how aqueducts transformed urban life by supplying water to baths, homes, and temples, fueling the growth of cities. They delve into construction techniques and the ingenious design behind structures like the Pont du Gard. The conversation also highlights the socio-political impact of water supply management in ancient Rome, showcasing how these innovations shaped the empire's legacy.
59 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 1h 8min
How to Survive in Carthage
Dr. Eve MacDonald, a Carthage expert from the University of Cardiff, takes us on a fascinating journey to 210 BC. She shares intriguing insights into daily life in ancient Carthage, from vibrant markets to unique culinary delights like Punic porridge. The podcast also dives into Carthaginian worship practices, including the significant Tanit symbol and community rituals. Listeners will discover the complexities of trade and cultural identity that made Carthage one of the ancient Mediterranean's richest cities.
108 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 1h 8min
The Olmec: Mother of Mesoamerican Civilisations
Jillian Mollenhauer, a leading expert on Olmec art, joins to reveal the rich artistic heritage of the ancient Olmec civilization. They delve into the cultural significance of monumental stone heads and intricate sculptures, exploring their symbolism and creation methods. Jillian discusses the influence of Olmec artistry on subsequent Mesoamerican cultures like the Maya and Aztec. The conversation highlights the connection between Olmec art and societal power, as well as the ongoing archaeological discoveries that continue to unveil the mysteries of this foundational civilization.
26 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 1h
Livia: Empress of Rome
Emma Southon, a historian specializing in Roman history and author of "A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women," joins to unravel the complex legacy of Livia Drusilla—the first Empress of Rome. They explore her political maneuvers amid familial tragedies and scandal, challenging the myth of her as a ruthless poisoner. The discussion highlights Livia's strategic role in the Julio-Claudian dynasty and her intriguing relationship with both Augustus and Julia, revealing a powerful woman navigating a dangerous world.
12 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 49min
Siberian Ice Mummies
Gino Caspari, a senior author on ancient Siberian ice mummies, delves into remarkable discoveries about the Pazyryk culture. He reveals insights into the intricate tattoos found on these mummies, exploring their significance and the advanced techniques used to create them. The discussion highlights burial practices, mummification methods, and the cultural identity reflected in these ancient tattoos. Caspari also emphasizes the rich archaeological context of the Altai Mountains, shedding light on how these findings reshape our understanding of ancient societies.
38 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 58min
Fall of Roman London
Dominic Perring, Emeritus Professor from University College London and an expert on Roman London, delves into the intriguing transformation of this once-thriving city into a ghost town by the fifth century. He discusses archaeological findings that unveil the city's decline, including the impact of political figures like Magnus Maximus and the shifts in trade and fortifications. Perring also sheds light on the rise of Christianity, evolving burial customs, and how these changes reflect the broader socio-economic picture of Roman London's tumultuous last chapters.
22 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
Irish Mythology
In this intriguing discussion, Anthony Murphy, a researcher and storyteller dedicated to Irish mythology, unravels the captivating tales that shape Ireland's ancient lore. He dives into epic battles between the Tuatha Dé Danann and Fomorians, revealing the legendary character Balor. The conversation also examines the connections between prehistoric sites like Newgrange and enduring myths, alongside the impact of Christian monks in preserving these narratives. Discover how stories of giants, magical beings, and the Salmon of Knowledge still resonate today.
32 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 40min
Megalodon
Join leading expert Professor John Long, a prominent paleontologist known for his fossil discoveries, as he dives into the awe-inspiring world of the Megalodon. This colossal prehistoric shark's jaw-dropping size and ferocious hunting strategies are explored in detail. John shares insights into fossil evidence and the evolutionary milestones that trace the history of these ancient super-predators. Intriguingly, he also discusses Megalodon's diet and the environmental factors that may have led to its extinction, unraveling myths along the way.
11 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 51min
The First Sharks
Join Professor John Long, a leading expert on prehistoric sharks from Flinders University, as he transports listeners back 300 million years to explore the fascinating evolution of sharks. Discover their journey from humble origins to apex predators, including bizarre creatures like the Helicoprion with its unique jaw. Long vividly discusses significant fossil discoveries, evolutionary adaptations, and the interactions between ancient sharks and amphibians, unveiling a captivating story of survival and dominance in Earth's ancient oceans.
20 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 52min
The Queen of Sheba
Dr. Jillian Stinchcomb, an expert from Towson University, delves into the fascinating legacy of the Queen of Sheba. She explores her ascent from a biblical figure to a cross-cultural icon, examining her wealth, wisdom, and significant role in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. The discussion reveals the complexities of her relationship with King Solomon, touching on themes of diplomacy, gender dynamics, and evolving perceptions throughout history. Listeners will discover the historical mysteries surrounding her life and her lasting influence on cultures worldwide.
