They built the great fortresses of the Bronze Age, developed a mysterious writing system and, according to Homer, led the Greek assault on Troy. But how much of the legend is rooted in reality? Was Agamemnon a real Mycenaean king?Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Steve Kershaw to ex ...Show more
Easter Island
How do you make a giant stone statue walk? On one of the most isolated islands on Earth, the people of Rapa Nui carved AND moved the extraordinary Moai, colossal faces hewn from soft volcanic rock that still inspire wonder today.Today, Tristan Hughes is joined by Prof. Terry Hunt ...Show more
For more than 100 years chemical weapons have terrorised, maimed and killed soldiers and civilians alike. As a chemist, the part his profession has played in the development of these weapons has long concerned Andrea Sella, professor of chemistry at University College London. In ...Show more
53 Poison Special - Poisonous Cosmetics in Medieval Times
How dangerous were the cosmetic habits of medieval women? Let's just say you won't find mercury foundation or potions of liquid gold at your nearest Macy's. Welcome to part 4 of Eleanor Herman's Poison Chronicles, inspired by her book The Royal Art of Poison.Learn more about The ...Show more
Napalm. One of the most controversial weapons of the 20th century, it's an incendiary substance that if it comes into contact with your skin, it will burn directly to the bone. Used in the Second World War, and later the Korean and Vietnam war, what are the origins of this devast ...Show more