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Natalie tells the story of the ancient city of Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great around 2500 years ago. Like all great ideas, it came to him in a dream.

Natalie is joined by Professors Islam Issa and Edith Hall to tell the story of the ancient city of Alexandria. Located on the Nile Delta, this spectacular and highly innovative city was founded by Alexandria the Great around two and half thousand years ago. And like all great ideas, it came to him in a dream.

'Rockstar mythologist' Natalie Haynes is the best-selling author of 'Divine Might', 'Stone Blind', and 'A Thousand Ships' as well as a reformed comedian who is a little bit obsessive about Ancient Greek and Rome.

Islam Issa is Professor of Literature and History at Birmingham City University. His book 'Alexandria, the City that Changed the World' is the Winner of the Runciman Award and The Times, Sunday Times, TLS, Booklist, Epoch Times and Waterstones Book of the Year.

Edith Hall is Professor of Classics at Durham University, specialising in ancient Greek literature. She has written over thirty books and is a Fellow of the British Academy.

Producer...Mary Ward-Lowery

Release date:

28 minutes

On radio

Tuesday 09:00

Broadcasts

  • Tuesday 09:00
  • Sat 26 Jul 2025 09:30

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