A regular podcast series about place and space in the ancient Roman Empire. “I found Rome built of sun-dried bricks; I leave her clothed in marble.” - Augustus.

Episode List

Lepcis Magna

Jul 26th, 2025 6:29 AM

Lepcis Magna had much in common with Roman cities in Northern Africa - former colonies, built on the coast next to a river, and a blend of Roman and local cultures. So it would have continued until the late 2nd century, when Septimius Severus, a local lad who made it big, became the Rome’s newest emperor. Guest: Dr Niccolò Mugnai (Assistant Professor at the Institute of Classical Archaeology at the University of Tübingen, Germany)

Porta Nigra

Jun 19th, 2025 11:22 PM

To the Romans the Porta Nigra would have been nothing remarkable - while it’s an impressive city gate, there were many like it, offering entrance through the walls into the Roman city of Augusta Treverorum. To today’s residents and visitors to Trier in Germany, it is a reminder of the city’s Roman past, as well an important part of early Christianity. Guest: Dr Christian Rollinger (Senior Lecturer, Ancient History, University of Trier)

Excavating Pompeii

Apr 4th, 2025 12:00 AM

Pompeii has been excavated for hundreds of years, and in that time techniques, practices and philosophies have changed. We’re now finding out a lot more about the city and the people who lived there, and there’s still more to find out. The When in Rome podcast is now fundraising for an upcoming series 8. Please give your support. Guest: Dr Sophie Hay (Archaeologist, Archaeological Park of Pompeii) Professor Steven Ellis (Classics, University of Cincinnati)

The House of Julius Polybius

Mar 7th, 2025 12:00 AM

The House of Julius Polybius is one of the best preserved residences in the town of Pompeii. Not only do we know about the family that lived there, a number of household goods have been excavated, giving insight to the life and workings of a Roman house. When in Rome podcast is now fundraising for series 8. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/nightlight/when-in-rome-podcast-series-8 Guest: Dr Lily Withycombe (Curator, National Museum of Australia).

The Roads to Rome

Dec 28th, 2024 12:00 AM

Rome had an extensive road network, stretching from one end of the empire to the other. It aided travel, communications, movements of army and trade, and to this day has helped funnel a steady stream of visitors back to the mighty city. Guest: Professor Catherine Fletcher (History, Manchester Metropolitan University). Professor Fletcher is the author of 'The Roads to Rome'

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