Welcome and in this episode, we'll explore the fascinating world of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city tragically preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

We'll discuss:

## The Fateful Day

- The sudden eruption that changed everything

- How Pompeii was buried under volcanic ash and pumice in just 18 hours[1]

## Uncovering the Past

- The unique plaster casts that reveal victims' final moments

- Cutting-edge scientific techniques used to study the remains[1]

## Threats to Preservation

- Challenges posed by tourism, weather, and potential landslides

- The looming danger of another Vesuvius eruption[1]

## Technology and Discovery

- 3D modelling efforts to digitally preserve the entire city

- Use of advanced scanners and tablets in archaeological work[1]

## Surprising Revelations

- Debunking myths about building purposes

- Attempts to decipher ancient scrolls using synchrotron technology[1]

Join us as we delve into the mysteries of Pompeii, where ancient history meets modern science in a race against time to uncover and preserve the secrets of this remarkable frozen city.

Perk up your mind with this fascinating exploration of how a simple beverage changed the course of history. Join us as we delve into the rich, dark world of 17th and 18th century coffee houses – the Silicon Valleys of the Enlightenment era. Discover how these caffeinated corners became the birthplace of revolutionary ideas, scientific breakthroughs, and political movements that shaped the modern world. From Voltaire's fifty-cup habit to the birth of the stock market, we'll reveal how coffee fuelled some of the greatest minds in history. Sip along as we brew up a story of social change, intellectual ferment, and the global connections that brought it all together. Whether you're a history buff, a coffee enthusiast, or just curious about how ideas spread, this episode will give you a jolt of historical insight. So grab your favourite mug and tune in – it's time to drink in the knowledge!

Join us as we explore the fascinating Dancing Plague of 1518 in Strasbourg. This peculiar historical event saw hundreds of people dancing uncontrollably for days on end. What caused this strange phenomenon? Was it stress, poisoning, or something else entirely? We'll delve into the various theories, examine the social context of 16th-century Europe, and discuss how authorities tried to handle this unusual crisis. Discover how this bizarre incident sheds light on mass behavior and social dynamics. Step back in time with us to unravel this intriguing historical mystery!