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History's Greatest Cities

History Extra

Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield will be joining expert guides with rich local and historical knowledge. Venturing to the great cities of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, they'll explore centuries-long stories of foundation and growth, and examine how contact between continents shaped these far-flung places. Along the way, they'll introduce the colourful characters who played pivotal roles in the development of these cities, and lead listeners through the must-visit palaces, temples, bazaars and, of course, bars and restaurants. And, our experts will also share insider tips to help visitors discover hidden facets of each fascinating destination.

History’s Greatest Cities is produced by the team behind HistoryExtra. For more fascinating stories from the past, head to HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. There you can find other feeds including the HistoryExtra Podcast, History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories and HistoryExtra Long Reads. Find out more at historyextra.com/podcast.

We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch.

You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/

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20 episodes
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S5 · E8
May 11 · 38 min
Tunis
To delve into the history of Tunis – and the ancient city of Carthage that preceded the modern Tunisian capital – travel writer Paul Bloomfield is joined by classicist and archaeologist Dr Eve MacDonald. Together, they explore theatres, mosques and markets, and meet some of the key characters who shaped the fascinating stories of these two cities. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E7
May 4 · 38 min
Vienna
Vienna has long been a pivotal location in European history, shaping imperial politics, hosting landmark diplomatic negotiations, and nurturing artistic, cultural and intellectual movements that spread throughout the continent. In this episode of History’s Greatest Cities, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by Florian Pollock to explore Austria's vibrant capital, from its Roman origins right up to modern day. Along the way, they stop off at some of the most fascinating historic spots to visit and share top tips for wandering history enthusiasts. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E6
April 27 · 48 min
Kyoto
Kyoto stands as Japan’s thousand-year imperial heart, in which courtly ritual, Buddhist thought, and architectural artistry crystallised into the nation’s cultural centre. In this episode, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by historian and author Lesley Downer to trace the city’s story. Together, they explore Kyoto’s temples and shrines, bamboo groves and geisha haunts – and meet people who played major roles in the city’s story, from its settlement to the era of modernisation that swept Japan in the mid-19th century. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E5
April 20 · 39 min
Boston
As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston played a pivotal role in the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War, as well as the signing of the Declaration of Independence that followed. In this episode of History’s Greatest Cities, Paul Bloomfield is joined by writer John Bell to explore the storied history of the capital of Massachusetts. Together, they wander through Boston’s oldest neighbourhoods, tracing the story of this harbour city from its pre-colonial roots, through Puritan settlement, to its rise as a major port and administrative centre of the British Atlantic world. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E4
April 13 · 51 min
Siena
Siena stands as a brick-and-marble time capsule of the Middle Ages, where banking ambition, artistic revolution, and fierce civic identity fused into one of the great medieval Italian city states. Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by archaeologist and researcher Lucy Shipley to explore this enchanting Tuscan city. Together they explore the city’s early years as a Roman military colony, its flourishing in the Middle Ages, and its later decline and revival. Along the way, they meet important figures who played major roles in Siena's story – and recommend top tips for eager travellers. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E3
April 6 · 30 min
Glasgow
Glasgow, once the beating heart of Scotland’s industry and trade, forged a legacy of innovation and culture that still shapes the modern nation. In this episode of History’s Greatest Cities, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by author and lecturer Dr Craig Lamont to explore the city’s monastic origins, its growth as a market town, and its development as an industrial, ship-building port. Along the way, they explore cathedrals, museums and world-class art galleries, and introduce key characters in Glasgow's story. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E2
March 30 · 29 min
Samarkand
Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by author Bradley Mayhew to explore Samarkand, the ancient Uzbek city and major hub on the Silk Roads. Together, they trace more than two millennia of history, from its ancient origins in the seventh century BC through conquest by Alexander the Great, destruction by Genghis Khan, prominence under Timur and later incorporation into the Soviet Union. Along the way, they meet major historical figures, try the local cuisine and share top advice for visitors to the city today. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: ⁠https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S5 · E1
March 24 · 42 min
Kraków
Serving as a medieval royal capital, Kraków was a vibrant historical centre of culture, learning and commerce, symbolising the region’s political and intellectual life for centuries. In this episode, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield and historian Professor Natalia Nowakowska guide us through the streets, squares and stories of this ancient city. They consider how invasion, oppression, and renewal shaped the city we know today – as well as the complex history and legacy of the Jewish population that played such an important role in the city's success for many centuries before Nazi occupation. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S4 · E10
January 6 · 30 min
2026’s must-visit historical destinations
Thinking about booking a big historical trip in 2026? In this bonus episode of History’s Greatest Cities, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by Tom Hall, vice president at Lonely Planet, to explore the best locations for history lovers. Which destinations are worth your time, and which historical hotspots are currently enjoying their moment in the spotlight? Find out here – and get some expert practical advice on making the most out of your trip. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S4 · E9
Dec 9, 2025 · 31 min
Bath
As celebrations for the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth unfold, we're exploring one of the places she called home: Bath. In this special episode, travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by Bath-based historian and writer Kirsten Elliott to explore the local history on her doorstep. Together they journey past Roman baths, medieval walls, and the elegant Georgian Royal Crescent – and, of course, check out some traditional English pubs along the way. They also meet some of the characters who shaped the city, from famed writers to postal pioneers. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/. This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S4 · E8
Jun 2, 2025 · 35 min
Marrakech
Barnaby Rogerson explores how the Moroccan city’s location drove its rise to dominance
S4 · E7
May 26, 2025 · 33 min
Sydney
Laila Ellmoos shares the history behind one of Australia's largest cities
S4 · E6
May 19, 2025 · 26 min
Beijing
Jonathan Clements explores the lengthy history of the Chinese capital, which has been the home of a dozen different dynasties
S4 · E5
May 12, 2025 · 37 min
Kingston
Audra A Diptree heads over to the Jamaican capital to explore its turbulent history and vibrant culture
S4 · E4
May 5, 2025 · 36 min
Buenos Aires
Jason Wilson charts how a sleepy colonial backwater became the densely urban Argentine capital
S4 · E3
Apr 28, 2025 · 44 min
New York City
Kara Schlichting highlights how this iconic American metropolis became the sprawling tourist destination it is today
S4 · E2
Apr 21, 2025 · 35 min
Antwerp
Michael Pye roams the streets of the Belgian city dominated by a medieval fortress and graced by Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance monuments
S4 · E1
Apr 14, 2025 · 40 min
Barcelona
Andrew Dowling journeys through the streets and sights of Barcelona, past and present
Apr 7, 2025 · 1 min
History's Greatest Cities | Season 4
How did the world’s greatest cities become just that – great? Was it location, determination or simple serendipity? This is the question behind History’s Greatest Cities, from HistoryExtra. Join travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield for the latest series, as he ventures to great cities in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas – all in the company of expert guides with rich local and historical knowledge. Along the way, they’ll meet some of the colourful characters who played key roles in shaping these cities and take in the most captivating historical sites – from temples and palaces to markets and museums. They’ll also sample the cultural delights of each place and share insider tips to help visitors discover little-known facets of these extraordinary destinations. History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at historyextra.com/podcast. For more fascinating stories from the past, check out BBC History Magazine or head to HistoryExtra.com. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch. You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: On Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4fgRA1d Anywhere Else: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/ This episode was hosted by Paul Bloomfield and produced by Jack Bateman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Feb 26, 2025 · 1 min
Introducing History's Greatest Battles | New Podcast
Vicious civil wars. Gruelling sieges. Rebellious provinces, galling betrayals and tribes seeking revenge… Join us for the first series of History’s Greatest Battles, where we’re heading back to the Roman empire. Emily Briffett is joined by historian Dr Adrian Goldsworthy to look back at five of the most fascinating clashes of this ancient civilisation, taking in the action blow by blow and identifying the major moments and key commanders that shaped events. They’ll also be uncovering what the military engagements of this mighty superpower can reveal about the age of the emperors, and asking: how history might have turned out differently had things gone the other way? Series 1 is live now. Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/historys-greatest-battles/id1794311126 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ph7KUocWnqPREhTZa44Mb Listen everywhere else by searching: History's Greatest Battles You can listen ad-free, access episodes early and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://apple.co/4fgRA1d. History's Greatest Cities returns soon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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