Considered one of Athens' biggest rivals, and known for their bloodthirsty and brutal nature - there's a reason the Spartans have been immortalised in history. With longstanding mythological origins, little is known about the early days of Sparta. From rumoured descendants of Heracles, through to the mythical lawmaker Lycurgus, it can be hard to separate fact and fiction. So what do we actually know about the origins of Sparta? And is there any archaeological evidence to back these claims up?In the first episode of our new Sparta mini-series, Tristan welcomes historian and author Dr Andrew Bayliss to the podcast, to take a deep dive into Sparta's murky beginnings. Looking at the myths used to define Spartan society, the available archaeological sources, and examining how myth and history has combined - is it possible to discern how Sparta was founded? And more importantly, by who?You can buy Andrew's book here.Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE.You can take part in our listener survey here.

When you think of spies, images of suave men in suits sipping martinis tend to come to mind - not, well, the Romans. But espionage has been used throughout Rome's history, from it's enemies using intelligence gathering techniques against the empire, through to even the most pragmatic of Emperor's recruiting secret agents. But what do we actually know about the Roman Secret Service, and how was it used across the empire?In this episode Tristan welcomes back Dr Simon Elliot to the podcast to delve into the world of Roman Espionage. Looking at it's uses in the Punic Wars, how different Emperors employed different tactics, and the archaeological evidence we have of their actions today - what did it take to be a Roman Spy, and how many of them were there actually?Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Known for bringing about the fall of the Western Roman Empire - the Vandals have a reputation of violence, destruction, and conquering. Moving from Eastern Europe across Gaul, and eventually taking Carthage, their actions have been immortalised in Christian texts and Western Language. But what do we actually know about the Vandals, and how did their behaviour bring one of the most powerful empires of all time to an eventual collapse?In this episode Tristan welcomes Professor Andy Merrills to the podcast to help explain the important role the Vandals played in history. Looking at their long migration across the European continent, their arrival in Carthage, and the archaeological evidence discovered - who were the Vandals, and were they really as destructive as history tells us?Sign up to History Hit at historyhit.com/subscribe using code BLACKFRIDAYPOD at checkout, for $1/£1 per month for 4 months and you’ll get nearly £30 off our normal monthly price over your first 4 months.You can take part in our listener survey here.

While a small, uninhabited island today, Keros held significant importance during the Bronze Age. As a crucial centre for cultural practices, trade, and unique rituals nearly 5,000 years ago, it's difficult to imagine that such a tiny, wild space was once a bustling hub of civilisation. So how was this mystical past discovered - and more importantly, by who?In this episode, Tristan welcomes historian and broadcaster Professor Michael Scott to the podcast to discuss the pivotal role Keros played not only in ancient times, but also in the narrative of modern archaeology. Exploring how the island suffered from looters, the extensive efforts archaeologists undergo today to excavate it, and why Keros stands as an integral part of the Cyclades - why is Bronze Age Keros so crucial, and what treasures have been unearthed there?You can buy Michael's book here.Sign up to History Hit at historyhit.com/subscribe using code 'BLACKFRIDAYPOD' at checkout, for $1/£1 per month for 4 months and you’ll get nearly £30 off our normal monthly price over your first 4 months.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Despite being uncovered in the 16th Century - new finds are still being discovered daily in Pompeii. With each new discovery offering a fresh insight into what life was like 2000 years ago, we're able to piece together Pompeii's vibrant past and culture thanks to the work of Archaeologists and historians today. But what would life Pompeii actually have been like for the individuals who lived there, and what do we know about them today?In this episode, Tristan welcomes author and journalist Elodie Harper to the podcast to talk about the archaeological treasures being uncovered in Pompeii today and how they helped provide inspiration for her latest instalment in the bestselling Wolf Den trilogy. Looking at the recent archaeology, the role of the goddess Fortuna, and the indomitable Julia Felix - what would Pompeii have been like for the people who lived there, and what was life like after for those who survived the eruption?You can buy Elodie's book here.Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Gold and horses! Few ancient civilisations were greater masters of metalworking and horse riding than the Saka culture of Central Asia. Also known as the ‘Eastern Scythians’, these peoples ruled over a large area of the Great Steppe more than 2,000 years ago. And recently, new archaeological initiatives in Kazakhstan have started to reveal so much more about these horse lords and their way of life. Great burial mounds have been excavated, revealing a wealth of extraordinary artefacts. From golden sword scabbards to richly-decorated horse gear, it’s fascinating evidence of the long-lasting and rich history that Kazakhstan possesses.In this very special episode, join Tristan on his venture to Kazakhstan. He visits the remote Altai Mountains in the far east of the country to see an incredibly rich group of Saka tombs, popularly known as Kazakhstan’s Valley of Kings. He interviews Kazakh archaeologist Zhanat Erlanova about the amazing archaeology that has so far been unearthed in this highland valley and what it has revealed about these ancient horse lords of Central Asia.Following this we return to the UK and Cambridge University, where Drs Rebecca Roberts, Saltanat Amir and Rinat Zhumatayev explain the wider Saka culture, and why the archaeology of Kazakhstan deserves to be much better known.This episode was edited by Aidan LonerganDiscover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE.You can take part in our listener survey here.

This episode contains references to death and sexual assault.Persephone is Queen of the Underworld in Ancient Greek mythology. Wife of Hades, and daughter of Zeus and Demeter, Persephone's journey to the underworld at the hands of Hades is a cornerstone myth. It gives an insight into how the Ancient Greeks saw not only death, but also the changing seasons and marriage.In this episode, Tristan welcomes back Dr Ellie Mackin Roberts to dive deep into the depths of the mythology surrounding Persephone and how significant she was to Ancient Greek society.Senior Producer: Elena GuthrieAssistant Producer: Annie ColoeEditor: Aidan LonerganScriptwriter: Andrew HulseVoice Actor: Nichola WooleyOther episodes in this series include: Zeus, Hera, Hephaestus, Aphrodite, Ares, Athena, King Midas, Achilles, Poseidon, Medusa, and Hades.Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Inhabiting the Balkans in antiquity, the Illyrians played a vital role in Ancient History. From their renowned reputation as skilled craftsmen, through to their seafaring ways - the Illyrians left their mark on the archaeological record. But what do we actually know about the Illyrians, and were they actually traders - or did they have a more sinister reputation on the high seas?In this episode Tristan welcomes Dr Danijel Dzino to the podcast, to delve into the mysterious world of the Illyrians. Looking at what the archaeology tells us about their tribal societies, how their civilisation flourished, and whether it's fair to call them Pirates - is it possible to define who the Illyrians were? And what can we learn about them from the Balkan Peninsula today?Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE. You can take part in our listener survey here.

Throughout history, the area today known as Gaza has often been a contentious site. Its historical significance is a history that spans nearly 3 millennia, and archaeological evidence shows us that it was an international hub frequented by the Egyptians, Mycenaeans, Hittites and more.In this episode, Tristan welcomes Professor Louise Steel to the podcast to talk both about about her team's excavations of Gaza and what the archaeology can tell us. Together, they look at Gaza’s transition into the Bronze Age, the early Egyptian discoveries, and assess Gaza’s significance in the ancient world.Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial HERE.  You can take part in our listener survey here.

Homo longi, also known as Dragon Man, is an extinct archaic human species - with a nearly complete skull found near Harbin, China, dating back to at least 146,000 years ago. Discovered in 1933 during the construction of the Dongjiang Bridge, it remained hidden until 2018 due to wartime circumstances and tensions. But why was the discovery of a single skull so important? And what does it tell us about human evolution and migration during the Middle Pleistocene?In this episode, Dr Chris Stringer returns to the podcast to help shed light on the importance of this discovery, and explain how the Dragon Man could be our closest human relative. Looking at how the Dragon Man was discovered, what he tells us about Human Migration, and the impact it had on paleoanthropology - do we know who the Dragon Man was, and what does he tell us about our Human relatives from nearly 200,000 years ago?Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

From seductive sorceresses to withered necromancers, witches play a varied - and vital - role in ancient history. Recorded in classical epics by the likes of Homer, and immortalised in tragedies by Euripides, the names Circe and Medea resonate across society and culture even today. But how did witchcraft and magic aid them in ancient societies, and what does it tell us about how women of power were viewed in the ancient world?In this episode Tristan welcomes Dr Mai Musié and Dr Regine May to the podcast to delve into the mystical world of Ancient Witches. Looking at how Circe and Medea's powers reflected their position in society, sinister necromancy, and the role that Greek tragedies played in immortalising the idea of the Witch - why were these women so powerful, and why were they so feared?Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Stretching across from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, Northern Africa is dominated by the Sahara Desert. The largest hot desert in the world, it's an indomitable force. So how did Ancient Communities manage to traverse it, and who were the people organising and participating in such a feat?In this episode, Tristan welcomes Sir Barry Cunliffe to the podcast, to talk about his new work on the history of the Sahara and those who lived there. Looking at how different communities and cultures tackled the sandy dunes, from Carthaginians and Egyptians, through to the seafaring travellers recorded by ancient authors - what do we know about the Sahara, and what can learn from the ancient civilisations who used to live there?Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

This episode contains strong language, and references to sexual assault.Alexander the Great - conqueror, legend, murderer. After ascending to the throne at aged 20 in 336BCE, his rule started with mass executions and political assassinations - themes that would follow throughout his tumultuous reign. But why was Alexander's reign so bloody, and what does it tell us about Hellenistic society at the time?In this special crossover episode with History Hit's new podcast 'After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds, and the Paranormal', Tristan chats to Dr Anthony Delaney and Dr Madeline Pelling, about this bloodthirsty moment in ancient History - and together they delve into the violent rule of Alexander the Great. With funerals riddled with assassinations, murderous brawls, and asking whether Alexander was truly dead when they started the embalming process - welcome to After Dark, taking you down the shadiest routes of history.You can listen to After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds, and the Paranormal here.Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

When you think of the 'Ice Age', tales of saber-toothed predators and hulking megafauna probably come to mind - but what else do we know about prehistoric culture that lived 25,000 years ago, and how did they live? From hunting Woolly Mammoths, to thriving in freezing temperatures - what did it take to survive the Ice Age?In this episode Tristan welcomes author Cody Cassidy to the podcast to look at what it took to live through the Ice Age, and how one particular culture in Eastern Europe - the Pavlovian Culture - adapted to the extremes. Looking at the changing landscape, the cause of the big freeze, and how to take down a Woolly Mammoth - do you have what it takes to survive the Ice Age? You can get Cody's book here.Discover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

This episode contains references to death and sexual assault.Hades is King of the the dead and the Underworld in Ancient Greek mythology. Dive into the shadowy underworld with host Tristan Hughes and guest Prof Sarah Iles Johnson of Ohio State University. Together, they unearth Hades' origin, define the enigmatic underworld, and what it reveals about Ancient Greek perceptions of life and beyond. Plus, delve into iconic myths like Orpheus & Eurydice, Achilles and the Trojan War and the Labours of Heracles.Senior Producer: Elena GuthrieAssistant Producer: Annie ColoeEditor: Aidan LonerganScriptwriter: Andrew HulseVoice Actor: Lucy DavidsonDiscover the past with exclusive history documentaries and ad-free podcasts presented by world-renowned historians from History Hit. Watch them on your smart TV or on the go with your mobile device. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS sign up now for your 14-day free trial here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Ötzi, otherwise known as the Iceman, is a renowned glacial mummy uncovered in 1991 in the Tyrolean Alps between Italy and Austria. Found by mountain hikers at 3,200 meters above sea level, his discovery was due to melting ice sheets and marked a significant archaeological breakthrough.In this episode, host Tristan Hughes delves deep into the world of Glacial Archaeology with expert Lars Pilø, Editor of Secrets of the Ice. Together, they discuss the mysteries surrounding Ötzi – from his possessions and his final days 5,000 years ago, to his tattoos and cause of death. Plus, Lars shares the latest in Glacial Archaeology and highlights from his own groundbreaking research.Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

One of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, Tyre was a jewel of the Ancient World. A Phoenician metropolis, and the birth place of numerous legendary figures - the city provides an invaluable insight into what life was like millennia ago. But what do we really know about the people who inhabited Tyre, and just why did the city play such a pivotal role across ancient history?In this episode, Tristan is joined by Historian and Author Katherine Pangonis to talk about the vibrant history of Tyre, and it's new place in the modern world. Looking at Tyre's mystical history, it's important location, and how Alexander the Great's siege literally changed the earth's landscape as we know it - why did so many people value Tyre so highly - and what legacy has it left behind today?Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

When you think of Gladiators you tend to think of Roman Amphitheatres, Hollywood films, and probably not Colchester in the UK. But thanks to the discovery of the Colchester Vase, evidence suggests that Gladiators might have fought in an arena in Roman Colchester. From animal hunts, to violent fights to the death - this artefact paints a vivid picture of what Roman life might have been like. But how accurate is this vase, and what does it's detailed imagery really tell us about Gladiators in Roman Britain?In this episode, Tristan welcomes Colchester Museum Curator Glynn Davis to the Podcast, to talk about what life might have been like for a Gladiator in Roman Britain. Using artefacts displayed in the museum, Glynn takes us on a journey through the different types of combat, animals fought, and helps debunk some popular Gladiatorial myths.You can watch Tristan and Glynn's chat here.Learn more about Decoding the Roman Dead here.The Ancients has been nominated in the History category at the Signal Awards! Help us win Gold by casting your vote here!Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

Part 2/2. Of unknown authorship, the Dead Sea Scrolls - also known as the Qumran Scrolls - are some of the most important ancient documents ever discovered. Found by a young boy in a cave by the Dead Sea, the scrolls offer invaluable insight into what life was like in Qumran and the surrounding areas 2 millennia ago. But who, if anyone, actually lived there, and what does John the Baptist have to do with it?In our second episode on the Dead Sea Scrolls, Tristan is once again joined by Dr Jodi Magness from the University of North Carolina, to help us understand the invaluable nature of these artefacts. Looking at how Jewish religion was organised at this time, early examples of etymology, and even some millennia old puns - what can we learn about the Dead Sea Scrolls, and why are they so valuable in our understanding of the ancient past?The Ancients has been nominated in the History category at the Signal Awards! Help us win Gold by casting your vote here!Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up here.You can take part in our listener survey here.

When examining the role of the Emperor within the Roman Empire, it is often easier to focus on the individual rather than the role itself. With contrasting personalities such as Marcus Aurelius and Caligula occupying the position, it becomes challenging to identify commonalities among Roman emperors. But when you examine the role itself and the responsibilities involved - it might be easier to find commonalities between the individuals than first believed.In this episode, Tristan welcomes Professor Dame Mary Beard to the podcast to delve into the enthralling world, and immense responsibilities of the Roman Emperor. By exploring those at the pinnacle of Roman society, they unveil the realities of life for those at the top and how intricate dynamics influenced everything from the Senate to the justice system and dinner parties. Investigating the expectations of everyday citizens regarding the Emperor, and looking at whether this relationship was genuinely beneficial for both parties - what can we learn about the Roman Emperors, and are they more similar than history leads us to believe?You can order Mary's book HERE.The Ancients has been nominated in the History category at the Signal Awards! Help us win Gold by casting your vote here!Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, Suzannah Lipscomb, Lucy Worsley, Matt Lewis, Tristan Hughes and more. Get 50% off your first 3 months with code ANCIENTS. Download the app on your smart TV or in the app store or sign up here.You can take part in our listener survey here.