Pope vs. Emperor: An 11th Century Crisis
When you think of drama in the medieval period the appointment of bishops would not naturally come to mind. But the Investiture Controversy is one of those political storms that eventually embroiled ...
9 Juli 202437min
How Parliament Came to Westminster
Parliament is perhaps the single most significant institution in the United Kingdom. Like anything worthwhile, it's a medieval creation. But why did these meetings become settled in Westminster, where...
5 Juli 202430min
The Rise of Thomas Becket
"Who will rid me of this troublesome priest?!"These words supposedly uttered by a King over 800 years ago set in motion a chain of gruesome events, and sparked cult-like devotion across the world.This...
2 Juli 202445min
1217: The year that forged England
Two years after King John had agreed to the terms of Magna Carta, he reneged on his word, plunging England into war. The rebellious barons offered the throne to the French prince Louis and set off the...
28 Juni 202451min
Magna Carta in America
What does a document written in 1215 in England have to do with the United States? Surprisingly a lot actually! The Magna Carta is thought to have influenced foundational documents like the Declaratio...
25 Juni 202428min
London's Oldest Parish Church: Great St. Barts
Once connected to a busy and thriving hospital, Great St Bart's Church in Smithfield is not only a survivor of the Great Fire of London, but also has a fascinating foundation story.In this episode of ...
21 Juni 202427min
Pope Joan: Sacred Scandal
Out of the shadowy world of the medieval church, an extraordinary legend emerged of a woman who disguised herself as a man and remarkably, rose to become Pope. It's a story of secret identities, illic...
18 Juni 202434min
Rise of the Crusader States
The Crusader states in the Near East were created after the First Crusade in order to keep hold of the territorial gains made by those known in the region as the Franks - essentially Christians from W...
14 Juni 202438min
