A History of Italy
Join history buff, Mike Corradi on a journey through time as he unfolds the rich tapestry of the Italian peninsula's history. This chronological story starts with the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and leads you through the most iconic events, influential figures, and cultural milestones that have shaped Italy into what we see today. It’s all serious stuff, but we do take time to stop and laugh at battles over a bucket, rude names, naughty priests and popes, rabbits winning sieges, doves winning battles, bits of dead bodies as tokens of love, and whole series of real historical si...
Tue, March 25, 2025
God's banker - the Roberto Calvi affair - interview with Nicolò Majnoni
After the release of the series " Secret Kingdom - God's banker " we talk with the podcast creator Nicolò Majnoni about the Roberto Calvi affair and talk about Italy in the early 80's, the Vatican, the Cold War, Freemasons and the Mafia
Tue, March 18, 2025
Regional Italy episode 06 - Sicily
In this episode, we dive into a personal story that kicks off with a Christmas party invitation and an unexpected wardrobe choice — a kilt . From this quirky start, we delve into the historical significance of Sicily , a land that has shaped centuries of Mediterranean history . The episode takes us on a journey from the ancient Carthaginian and Greek settlements to the present day, with a special focus on Palermo , Catania , and Messina . We hear about the Normans , the Arabs , and the rise of the Roman Empire in Sicily. Along the way, we uncover the island's rich cultural layers, including its enduring connection to mafia resistance , the tragic story of Giuseppe Impastato , and heroes like Falcone and Borsellino who fought to bring justice to Sicily. In the second half of the episode, we explore the stunning beauty of Sicily's landscapes from Mount Etna , its picturesque coastline, and its ancient Greek ruins . Then of course there are the local wines , like this eof the Donna Fugata winery and the 100 passi , which embody Sicily's resilience and spirit. Finally, we hear about Explore Worldwide’s immersive tours of the island, including family-friendly adventures and activities like zip-lining , sea kayaking , and visiting archaeological gems like Giardini Naxos and Siracusa . Key highlights: Sicilian ancestry and the influence of Scottish heritage. The island's multicultural past : from Carthage to Greek colonization. Catania , Messina , and the legendary Mount Etna . Anti-mafia heroes, and community resilience. The importance of local wine and sustainable tourism with Explore Worldwide . If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Sicily , this episode will inspire you to explore its timeless beauty, history, and culture. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn about one of the world’s most fascinating regions — packed with legends, landscapes, and a true sense of adventure! Takeaway: Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a wine lover, Sicily offers something for everyone. Tune i
Wed, March 12, 2025
186 - Julius II changes his mind and some spanking (1509 - 1512)
Venice is reeling from the defeat at Agnadello , but immediately starts the comeback egged on by doge Lorenzo Loredan . After some promising victories they suffer another defeat at the hands of the League of Cambra i at Polisella . When all seems once again lost, Pope Julius II changes sides, allying with Venice and seeking to expel the French from Italy, which he manages to do after forming the Holy League of 1512.
Bonus · Tue, March 04, 2025
Regional Italy episode 05 - Campania
From the Roman fast food joints in the marvel that is Pompei, to the buzzing historical streets of Naples and the witches of Benevento, we're going off, thanks to Explore Worldwide, to explore the southern Italian Region of Campania. What happened to the tree of the witches? What is the "Naples Splitter"? Where is the most iconic coast of Italy? Can you actually move without tripping over a UNESCO world heritage site? Which city had bad wind? How many people can you fit on a scooter? You'll find the answers to these questions and many more in this Episode. Thanks as always to our partner for this series: Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide . Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
Tue, February 25, 2025
185 - Clouds over Vernice - Julis II and Cambrai (1500 - 1509)
After following the adventures of Julius II we go and visit with Venice , who is having ups and downs, losing influence as the attentipn of the world turns to the Atlantic, losing colonies to the Turks and starting to make enemies in Europe, powerful enemies that will come together in the league of Cambrai , leading to the dramatic battle of Agnedello in 1509. Oh and we also have the mysterious death of would-be doge Filippo Tron : was he murdered, or just seriously overweight?
Bonus · Tue, February 18, 2025
Regional Italy 04 - Tuscany
We start from Siena , with the story of how I almost got beaten up and why there is an extra bit of Siena cathedral added on and incomplete. The it's up to Florence to visit with the Medici, Da Vinci, Botticelli and Simonetta Vespucci, his Venus. From the capital of the Renaissance we head to their arch enemy Pisa and their wonky tower and then Lucca , with its Holy Face and medieval walls. After a bit of wine tasting in Val D'Orcia with some Brunello di Montalcino and Montepulciano we head to the seaside in Orbetello , province of Grosseto to visit the archeological site of Cosa and the unusual tarot garden park.
Tue, February 11, 2025
184 - Julius II: Warrior pope rising (1503 - 1508)
Giuliano della Rovere, after trying for more than a decade, finally manages to become pope Julius II in 1503. He gets to work breaking the last resistance of Cesare Borgia, then has to sort out his Papal States, gobbled up by Venice in the north with a whole series of local lords taking back power. In all of this, the pope calls in a special decorator to do some touch up work in the Sistine chapel, a certain Michelangelo Buonarroti. In the sketch we imagine the conversation between the two.
Bonus · Tue, February 04, 2025
Regional Italy episode 03 - Lombardy
We take a little trip around the region of Lombardy , going beyond the financial and fashion capital Milan , to explore the beautiful nature of lake Como and hear all about the lake, monster that resides there. On the way, we will hear about a bridge, built by the devil in Pavia and the ghost that horns, the castle above the city of Como . We will also also make a stop off in the picturesque Bergamo and find out why there is a family emblem with three sets of testicles in front of the chapel in Piazza Duomo, before ending our tour in the unique peninsula, that is the city of Mantua created when the profit Manto cried the lakes into existence. As always, we are lucky to have as our guide, our good friends at Explore Worldwide . Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide . Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
Tue, February 04, 2025
Recap 08 episodes 161 - 183
We stop and take a look back at the episodes that cover the late 1400's as Italy completed her transition from the middle ages to the Renaissance and the lead up to the Italian Wars after the death of Lorenzo the Magnificent. We retrace the campaign of king Charles VIII of France, the adventures of Ludovico Sforza, Il Moro, the end of the independence of the kingdom of Naples and, in the background the rise and fall of the Borgias, as well as the last stand of the Tigress of Forlì, Caterina Sforza.
Bonus · Tue, January 21, 2025
Regional Italy episode 02 - Veneto
Which is the Italian region that can drink you under the table? Tradition would say it's Veneto and with wines such as Amarone della Valpolicella and Prosecco , it's not gard to believe. We start our journey trying not to talk too much about Venice and then doing just that, seeing the legend of the heart of brick and why the Gondola got its shape. The theme of love then, of course, takes us to the Verona of Romeo and Juliet, but before we get there we will hear the true story of how the Venetians took a fleet overland and up and down mountains to get it into Lake Garda. Our stay in Verona will allow us to talk about factional fighting and Guelphs and Ghibellines and then it's East to the Vicenza of Andrea .Palladio, before heading north into the mountains of Belluno. We then get some more Venice like experience in Treviso, home of Prosecco and tiramisu where we hear where the habit of counting sheep came from with the powerful Ezzelino da Romano. We of course can't avoid a trip to Padova , to hear about their local boy, St Anthony . Our guide in the tour will be Explore Worldwide: Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide . Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
Tue, January 14, 2025
183 - The fall of the Borgias (1503 - 1507)
Just when the Borgias seem at the top of their game and that nothing could possibly stop them, in August of 1503 pope Alexander VI , after a dinner party at a cardinal's house, becomes seriously ill and died after two weeks. His son Cesare also becomes very ill and cannot sum up the energy to control the fallout of the situation and outmanoeuvre the Borgia's arch enemy, cardinal Giuliano della Rovere. In the end the inevitable happens and he becomes pope Julius II, sealing the impeding doom of Cesare Borgias who, after some time in captivity, seems to take the option of going out in a blaze of glory.
Bonus · Tue, January 07, 2025
Regional Italy episode 01 - Emilia Romagna
In our first episode of the Regional Italy miniseries we explore the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna , travelling initially along the ancient Roman road created by Marcus Aemilius Lepidus. We start from the beautiful castles of the province of Piacenza , then cross the river to Parma , the culinary capital of Euope. Then it's a visit with Matilda countess of Canossa in Reggio Emilia before visiting with Ferraris and Pavarotti in Modena . After that, remembering the battle of the bucket takes us from Modena to Bologna. We leave the Via Emilia for a moment to explore the lands of the ancient house of Este in Ferrara and then the ancient imperial capital of Ravenna. Heading south brings us to the lands of Caterina Afroza, the "Tigress of Forlì" before we cross the Rubicon and end our tour in Rimini , visiting the bridge of Tiberius, the arch of Augustus and the Malatesta castle where we find the Federico Fellini museum. Our guide in the tour will be Explore Worldwide: Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide . Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
Tue, December 31, 2024
Regional Italy launch and Buon Anno!
While wishing you a "Buon Anno" (Happy New Year" we are also excited to announce the launch of our new miniseries on the Italian regions: Regional Italy! Thanks to the support of our friends at Explore Worldwide, we'll be looking at the culture, landscape, legends and history of some of Italy's 20 beautiful regions. Join us! https://www.exploreworldwide.com/?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Spotify&utm_campaign=History+of+Italy+Podcast
Tue, December 24, 2024
Seasons greetings: A Visit from Alaric
Just a quick one to wish you a happy whatever you are celebrating, or not celebrating and give you the gift of my rendition of the famous poem "a visit from Alaric" also known as "T'was the night before Saturnalia".
Tue, December 10, 2024
182 - Cesare Borgia: Betrayal and vengeance (1502 - 1503)
People in Italy are getting very nervous about Cesare Borgia's successes, at times reached with treachery, and some of the unhappy party are actually Il Valentino's captains. When rebellion breaks out they see their chance and jump on the bandwagon. However, when things don't turn out as planned, the captains have to hope Cesare's forgiveness is sincere...
Wed, December 04, 2024
Autumn 2024 update - episode, sketches, Italian schools and politics
Just a quick update to apologise for a publishing delay and tell you a little about our sketches, the Italian school system and the current political situation in Italy
Tue, November 19, 2024
181 - Cesare Borgia flying high (1501 - 1502)
After doing his part for the French in the second Italian War Cesare Borgia heads back to Rome to concur with his father pope Alexander VI. They take care of some internal business with the Colonna, Orsini and Savelli and Cesare takes some time to kill some bulls and impregnate a few women. Then Cesare heads back to expand his duchy of Romagna aiming for Camerino and Urbino of the Montefeltro, while his captains, particularly Vitelozzo Vitelli and Giampsolo Baglioni. As Cesare rises higher, those around him, even the allies, start to worry.
Tue, November 05, 2024
180 - The Challenge of Barletta (1503)
We first follow the life of the military captain Ettore Fieramosca (Hector Proudfly) and his troubled love story with Ginvenra da Monreale which ended tragically after the intervention of Cesare Borgia. We then move to the lead up and action to one of the most famous duels in Italian history, the Challenge of Barletta (La Disfida di Barletta) in which 13 Italian knights faced off against 13 French knights lead by Guy De La Motte to defend the honour of Italian arms. The duel would resound throughout Italian history reaching through the Italian Risorgimento to the Fascist era. The Italians: Francesco Salamone Marco Corollario Riccio Da Parma Gugliemo albamonte Mariano marcio Abignente Giovanni Capoccio da Giovanni Brancaleone Ludocivo Abenavolo Ettore Giovenale Giovanni Bartolomeo Fanfulla Romanello da Forlì Ettore Gioveneale de pazzis The French: Charles de torgues Marc De Frigne Girout de Forses Claude Grajan D'aste Martellin de lambris Pierre de liaye Jacques de la fontaine Eliot de baraut Jean De Landes Sacet de saceet Francois de pise Jacques de Guignes Naute de la Faise
Tue, October 22, 2024
179 - Italian Wars 9: The Fall of Naples and France vs Spain
Naples once again falls to the French of king Luis XII, but once again they can't hold on to it for long as the delicate agreement with the Spanish of Queen Isabella and king Ferdinand quickly melts away and the legendary general Gonzalo De Cordoba manages to win the kingdom of Naples for his sovereigns with great victories at Cerignola and on the Garigliano river among others. We also see a little involvement of our old pal Cesare Borgia and hear about a tragic love triangle he was involved in with a woman called Ginevra da Monreale and a man who will resound through Italian history and literature called Hector Proudfly, Ettore Fieramosca.
Tue, October 08, 2024
178 New triumphs for Cesare and Naples under three (again) 1500 - 1501
We follow Cesare Borgia as he continues his conquest ousting Giovanni Sforza from Pesaro, Pandolfo Malatesta from Rimini and Astorre Manfredi from Faenza. We are also introduced to one of his most important generals, Vitelozzo Vitelli and his vengeful hatred for the Republic of Florence who executed his brother. Finally, France and Spain reach a secret pact for the division of the kingdom of Naples. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/Province_1454.jpg
Tue, September 24, 2024
177 - Italian Wars 8 - Il Moro back in Milan… for a bit (1500 - 1508)
With the French hold on Milan looking weak, Ludovico il Moro sees his chance to take his duchy back, but only manages for a while before he is defeated at the Battle of Novara, made prisoner and taken to France where he will spend the rest of his days in captivity.
Tue, September 10, 2024
176 - Cesare the conqueror (1499 - 1500)
As we set the scene for the start of Cesare Borgia's military campaign, we start to observe the ominous signs of what is to come in Rome with the arbitrary accusation and confiscations of the Roman nobility. Then we go exploring to see what we intend with the term " Romagna " and trace it back to Marcus Aemilius Lepidus , the Byzantines and Julius Cesar's famous " The die is cast" speech, pronounced in Rimini after crossing the Rubicon river which we will also do to visit with the Malatesta of Rimini before Cesare comes to face of with Caterina Sforza t o start his conquest. See link to Romagna explanation: https://emilia-o-romagna.netlify.app
Tue, August 27, 2024
175 - The Italian Wars 7 - Milan under threat (1499)
King Louis XII prepares to descend upon Milan to stake his claim to the duchy. Before he sees out he needs to make deals with England, The Swiss and the Italian powers, Savoy and Ve3nice. Meanwhile, duke Ludovico il Moro is also preparing and doing a really bad job of it. The results will show.
Tue, August 13, 2024
174 - The last stand of the tigress - Caterina Sforza part IV (1499 - 1509)
We follow the last stand of Caterina Sforza as the French once again descend upon Italy with king Louis XII and Cesare Borgia, made representative of Romagna by his father Pope Alexander VI, closes in on the lands of Caterina as she prepares for her last great battle.
Tue, July 30, 2024
173 - The roar of tigress - Caterina Sforza part III (1488 - 1499)
After the assassination of her husband Girolamo Riario , Caterina is in full control as regent for her son, Ottaviano Riario. She has to navigate regional issues in Romagna , another assassination in Faenza and then the tricky balancing act during the descent of Charles VIII of France. During all of this she managed to start a new passionate relationship with Giacomo Feo, which will also end in murder and in her thirst for vengeance, Caterina will lose sight of her role as a head of state.
Tue, July 16, 2024
The Tigress in her Den - Caterina Sforza part II (1481 - 1488)
After settling in to their new signoria, Caterina Sforza and her husband Girolamo Riario have to deal with continuous plots, the War of Ferrara and the death of uncle pope Sixtus IV . After that Caterina will really show what she's made of by taking and holding Castel Sant Angelo, her sword at her side, while seven months pregnant. In the end after her husband's assassination, she will stand alone to face the conspirators in one of Italian Renaissance history's most famous legendary scenes.
Tue, July 02, 2024
171 - The Tigress rising: Caterina Sforza part 1 (1464 - 1481)
We look at the early years of the woman who would come to be known as "The Tigress of Forlì", Caterina Sforza starting with her youth at the court of her father, duke of Milan Galeazzo Maria. We then move on to the traumatic start to her marriage to Girolamo Riario , nephew of pope Sixtus IV , as he starts his ambitious rise to power, that will eventually lead him to his doom.
Tue, June 18, 2024
170 - The Gonzaga of Mantua Mantua
Having met Francesco II Gonzaga, at the battle of Fornovo, we take some time to go back and have a look at the beautiful city of Mantua from its legendary origins, surrounded by lakes created by the tears of a prophetess, through the period of our heroine, Matilda of Tuscany, countess of Canossa, to see the arrival and rise of the Corradi of Gonzaga. They would take over control of the city of Mantua and set up a county, and then a Marquisate that would put them in third place as the longest lasting dynasty in Italy On the way, they will have to battle with the greedy Visconti of Milan, and have arguments with famous painter Andrea Mantegna who refused to make the ugly Gonzaga good looking and had issues with apples. We will also answer the question of what happened to King Charles the eighth of Franc's porn collection.
Tue, June 04, 2024
Special: Republic Day 2024
To celebrate 2nd June, Republic Day as well as the release of the related film " C'è ancora domani" (There's still tomorrow ) by director Paola Cortellesi, we are brushing up our episode on the Historical events that lead up to the referendum od 1946 which abolished the Italian monarchy, sending the Savoy family into exile. All of this against the background of post war Italy which was on the brink of civil war.
Tue, May 21, 2024
169 - The Italian Wars 6 - round 1 aftermath, the north
After leaving the Papal States with Cesare Borgia waiting for us, we head into the Republic of Florence to look at the struggle with the other Italian powers over Pisa and also stop to talk a little about the man who named America, the Florentine Amerigo Vespucci. After that it's over to the Duchy of Milan where duchess Beatrice d'Este dies in 1497 and the threat of French invasion becomes very real when Luis XII takes the throne. The last stop takes us to Venice and yet another clash with Ottoman Turks at the battle of Zonchio, a.k.a. the first battle of Lepanto. Thanks once again to our partner for the episode: Exlore Worldwide
Tue, May 07, 2024
168 - The Italian war 5 - round 1 aftermath - the south and centre
After seeing French King Charles VIII out of the Italian peninsula, we take a quick tour around to see what the situation is at the end of the 15th century and make sure everyone is on the same page. We look at Sardinia, Sicily, the Kingdom of Naples and the Papal States under the Borgias , but also take time to talk about syphilis and some naughty nighttime activities . Visit our partner for great travel ideas: Exlore Worldwide
Tue, April 23, 2024
167 - The Italian Wars 4 - Charles has left the building (1495 - 1498)
Charles VIII of France is on his way out as king Ferrandino of Naples, along with Gonzalo de Cordoba, are gradually taking back the kingdom. Meanwhile Charles is headed off by the Holy League of Venice at the town of Fornovo in the Apennines of Parma. In the ensuing battle, he manages to get through, but not without losing all the supplies and spoils of his campaign. The league commander Francisco Gonzaga , comes out of the affair looking pretty good. After he finally leaves and Luis of Orleans leaves Novara to the besieging Sforza , an uneasy peace fans over Italy.
Tue, April 09, 2024
166 - The Italian Wars 3 - finally Naples… for a bit (1495)
Charles VIII of France finally managed to get to Naples , but doesn't hang around long, the players on the Italian scene feel he has worn out his welcome and Venice, Milan, the pope, Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian and Ferdinand II of Spain band together in the Holy league to threaten France. Things kick off in the south with the new king of Naples Ferrandino ready to fight back supported by the Spanish and in the north the Milanese and Venetians lay siege to the French in Novara. Visit our partner's website at Exlore Worldwide
Tue, March 26, 2024
Special - The Gulf of poets: Byron, Keats and Shelly in Italy
A chance visit to the beautiful Ligurian town of Porto Venere , staying in a 900 year-old tower, Torre Capitolar e ( https://www.capitolare.com/ ) gave us the opportunity to meet not only with medieval history, the Republic of Genoa and Pisa, the Castle of the Doria, but also with the Romantic ports: Byron, Keats, Percy Shelly and the great Mary Shelly , author of the novel "Frankenstein". Thanks to our partner, Explore Worldwide ( Exlore Worldwide ) we have the opportunity to share with you the unforgettable trip and follow in the footsteps of the literary greats, from their memorable story-telling stormy night on the shores of Lake Geneva, to Tuscany, Liguria, Ravenna, Venice and Rome. Love, death passion, lots of animals and lots of sex ... you'll find it all in this special episode.
Tue, March 19, 2024
165 - The Borgias are the bosses (1492 - 1497)
After his election as pope Alecander VI Rodrigo Borgia gets straight down to business, sorting out the lawlessness in Rome, tinkering with the delicate national balance with the Duchy of Milan, the Republics of Florence and Venice as well as the kingdom of Naples. He then has to also deal with the descent of French King Charles VIII, but most of all, he wants to sort out his children, Cesare, Giovanni, Lucrezia and Goffredo. When the pope decides to pin all hopes for a future Borgia dynasty on Giovanni, Cesare is not at all pleased and makes some plans of his own, which may have included his brother's body washing up the banks of the Tiber. Our partner for this episode is Explore Worldwide, check out their website: Exlore Worldwide
Bonus · Tue, March 05, 2024
Special - Lucrezia Borgia
To celebrate the "A History of Italy" podcast joining the "Sentire" media network (sentire.media), we take a look at one of the most maligned women in history, Lucrezia Borgia . By the 20th century, her reputation was turned around a bit and from the poisoning murder and sexual predator, she became the innocent victim of the machiavellian scheming of her father, Rodrigo Borgia, pope Alexander VI and her brother Cesare Borgia, the most famous case study for Machiavelli's "The Prince". Although this may have been true for Lucrezia the young girl, the strong and intelligent young woman who became the beloved duchess of Ferrara was no push over.
Bonus · Tue, March 05, 2024
Special - Caterina of Siena
To celebrate A History of Italy of joining the Sentire podcast network ( sentire.media ) we go back to visit with a peculiar young girl who went from early, rather graphic and violent religious visions to become one of the most influential people of her time, able to grasp the attention of rulers and popes, treating them, if necessary, like children. We visit with Caterina da Siena , St Catherine, patron saint of Italy along with St Francis of Assisi.
Bonus · Tue, March 05, 2024
Special - Matilde di Canossa
To celebrate the A History of Italy podcast becoming a member of the Sentire Media podcast network we go back and visit with one of our personal favourites, Matilda of Canossa Margarine of Tuscany, a woman of power in a time, the late 11th century when women were not supposed to wield power. She ruled over lands that stretched from the confines of Rome to the confines of Italy herself, keeping pace with popes and emperors and doing her duty to the very end.
Mon, February 19, 2024
Update, Sanremo Italian song festival and Italian identity
A quick hello to let you know I haven't dissapeared and to tease some upcoiming news before considering the recent Sanremo Italian song festival and what it means to be Italian.
Tue, January 23, 2024
164 - The rise of the Borgias
After seeing Charles VIII though Rome with an uncertain deal with pope Alexander VI , Rodrigo Borgia , we go back to see how the Borgias came to Italy from Spain with Alphonse of Aragon, rose to the papacy with Callixtus III who in turn raised his nephew Rodrigo. He would eventually, thanks to one of his many lovers, have three children before becoming pope, Cesare, Giovanni and Lucrezia , who would all go on to their own adventures. YO5cxf5jHXIp7DLaYa1M
Wed, January 03, 2024
6th Anniversary episode - Best of the sketches
To celebrate our 6th anniversary on 3rd January, we look back on some of the most memorable sketches that have accompanied the regular episodes. From the first appearance of the Great Turnip, through the fish, frog, falcon fly king, strange trade corporations in Florence, agreeing on baguette battles to a conversation with the supreme being himself. Follow us on a rather silly journey down memory lane.
Thu, December 28, 2023
6th anniversary annoucement
For our 6th anniversary on 3rd January 2024 we are going to aunch a special "Best of the sketches" episode, so we are asking you to get in touch to let us know what your favorite skethges have been over the years and perhaps we'll include your choice in the show! Get in touch!
Tue, December 19, 2023
Interview on the Aldo Moro Affair with Simon Gaul, Author of "White Suicide"
We spoke to Travel book author, adventurer and novelist Simon Gaul about his new book "White Suicide" which covers a dark period of Italian history in which Christian Democrat Party leader Aldo Moro was kidnapped and assassinated just as he was about to sign a historical deal which would have allowed the Italian communist party a seat at the table of Italian government. The kidnapping and murder were claimed by the far left Red Brigades , but strong suspicions remain to this day about the involvement of members of the infamous P2 Masonic lodge, members of the Italian political establishment and even the CIA . In his novel on the affair, Simon brings together highly in-depth research with an intelligent fictional reconstruction of aspects we do not know to this day... and may never know.
Tue, December 12, 2023
163 - The rise and Fall of Gerolamo Savonarola
We follow the life of mystic, prophet and monk, Gerolamo Savonarola , who came to have a great moral influence over Florence , particularly after the expulsion of the Medici . His increasing fiery denunciation of the immorality of the Florentines and then the church and pope Alexander VI made him more and more enemies, ready to pounce on him the moment his popularity waned.
Tue, November 28, 2023
162 - The Italian wars 2- opening hostilities and the Medici get kicked out
Charles VIII of France starts to head into Italy, beginning with the lands of Savoy where a 2-year-old duke leaves things to his mum to deal with the expensive guest who also asks her for a loan. Meanwhile, the Neapolitans try to go on the offensive by attacking locations along the Tuscan and Ligurian coast to no avail. Charles then meets with Ludovico il Moro, then the real duke of Milan Gian Galeazzo Sforza , who then dies a week after the meeting, saying goodbye to his dogs and horses at his deathbed. Then it is to Florence , where the son of Lorenzo the Magnificent, Piero, after sitting on the fence for a while, rolls over and gives Charles more than necessary and hets kicked out of Florence for it. Charles, however, fares no better with the new Florentine government and after a confusing argument about horns and bells, he makes his way to Rome with reduced results from the negotiation.
Tue, November 14, 2023
161 - The Italian wars 1: setting up and setting off
We look at the background to the expedition by King Charles VIII of France into Italy to claim the throne of Naples. This takes us to explore the situation i Milan, with Duke Gian Galeazzo Sforza and his uncle Ludovico il Moro, then to Naples, where king Alphonse II has just succeeded his father Ferrante. We see the diplomatic and military preparation that once again sees the Italian powers, Milan, Venice, Florence, the Papal States and Naples have to decide which side to line up on, with the novelty of the most powerful army in Europe heading into the peninsula.This is the start of the Italian Wars, the conflict that really took Europe into the Modern Age.
Thu, October 26, 2023
Recap 07 - Episodes 139 to 160
Before charging into the modern age, we take our usual look back on past episodes for a recap. In this case we look at the middle to late 15th century as the "big five" Naples, Milan, Venice, Florence and the Papal States struggle for dominance in a complicated balance, without forgetting interesting minor players, such as Savoy, Urbino and Trentino.
Mon, October 09, 2023
Special: 9th October 1963 - Vajont, a man-made natural disaster
We go back to a quiet mountain valley of north-eastern Italy where the peace was forever broken by one of the country's most ambitious architerctural and engineering projects that ended in one of the worst disasters in the history of Italy in the 20th century. This is the story of how progress and profit was put before thousands of human lives, this is the story of Vajont, a story that must be remenered,
Tue, October 03, 2023
Quick annoucement - demolition work in progress
Just a few seconds to let you knwo that we are almost ready to get back on track, but we need for the surroundings to go back so some minimal for of tranquility
Tue, September 12, 2023
160 - Federico Da Montefeltro and bits getting cut off
We linger yet another episode in the Middle Ages to take a look at the Duchy of Urbino and in particular the "condottiero" Federico da Montefeltro, he of th eodd shped nose. There is also a murder mystery surrounding the death of his predessssor and some macbre pasrts with intimate bit being detatched.
Wed, July 26, 2023
Summer announcement - listen even if you haven't cought up
Just a quick annoucement to update on goings on in the AHoI family life as well as plans for the near future
Tue, June 13, 2023
159 - Life, death and sex in the middle ages
We take a look at what life was like in the middle ages for the average Giuseppe and Lucrezia, from birth to death, sickness, medicine, work, free time, travel and sex and all the naughtiness connected to it.
Tue, May 23, 2023
158 - The Este of Ferrara
We take a look at a brief summary of one of the oldest dynasties in Europe, the House of Este who are the ancestors also of the House of Windsor rulers of the United Kingdom. In particular we look at the Italian branch, from their Carolingian roots to the year 1505 when Ercole D'Este was succeeded by his son Alfonso and daughter in law, Lucrezia Borgia . In between we'll see: a marquis acting like a brigand ; nasty rebellions that end in cannibalism a non stop array of naughtiness in the bedroom , with one member of the house of Este cooking in at 800 lifetime lovers ; a romantic love triangle than ends in a tragic beheading and much more
Tue, May 09, 2023
Interview: Artemisia Gentileschi with Lori from "Her Half of History"
We were lucky enough for Lori from the Her Half of History podcast to come and talk about the 17th century female Roman artist Artemisia Gentileschi . She overcame great trauma and injustice at a young age to become one of the most important and successful painters of her time and the centuries that followed.
Tue, April 25, 2023
25th April - Liberation
On the 78th anniversary of Italy's liberation from Nazism and Fascism, we publish a repeat from 2020 on family memories and the importance of this day.
Wed, April 12, 2023
157 - Venice out of the middle ages and into uncertainty (1454 - 1492)
After the peace of Lodi, the relative stability on the peninsula allows Venice to concentrate on the Ottomans again and the inevitable first war breaks out in 1463 . Before that, we see one of the few doge's to actually be deposed, Francesco Foscari a record breaking doge for various reasons and sexy actor in "The Medici" Tv series. Then, when Venice reaches a rather humiliating peace with the Turks, it seems like a perfect time to them to start the war of Ferrara from 1480 to the peace of Bagnolo in 1484. Then it's time to make their way out of the Middle Ages with dark clouds looming on the horizon.
Tue, March 28, 2023
156 - Venice tangles with the Turks and messes with Milan (1416 - 1454)
Venice, after trying to avoid it, goes to war with the Turks and at the Battle of Gallipoli a spectacular victory is won... but by who? Then, we see how Venice used an ex ,mercenary captain of Milan against his old employers, Carmagnola , but then, when the Serenissima started to suspect him, he met an unfortunate end. Finally we relive one of the most impressive feats of naval engineering of the age, before we get to the start of a relatively peaceful period with the peace of Lodi.
Tue, March 14, 2023
155 - Venice has trouble with the neighbours (1400 - 1416)
We come round to Venice to see how they were doing at the start of the 15th century , dealing with neighbours such as the duchy of Milan under Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Padua under the Da Carrara and the formidable Sigismund king of Hungary and his general Pippo Spano. Before that we take some time to have a look at the political structure of the ruling oligarchy, from the doge whose wive has an amusing name down, and take a look at the city... and its pigs
Tue, February 28, 2023
154 Trentino Alto Adige (up to 1509)
Since we have never been there in the podcast, we take some time to go back and give a very general overview of the northern Italian region of Trentino Alto Adige, perched up north between the duchy of Milan and the Republic of Venice with reference to the time we are in. We go through Romans, Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, Franks to get to the bishop-counts that characterise this area, such as George of Lichtenstein or Federico Vanga. We then see how Venice started to encroach and hear about a rather spectacular feat of overland fleet travel engineering.
Tue, February 14, 2023
153 - The assassination of Galeazzo Maria and the Moore takes control (1468 - 1494)
Duke of Milan Galeazzo Maria Sforza continues with his expensive naughty ways until he is assassinated in 1476. His son Gian Galeazzo becomes duke under the regency of his mother, Bona of Savoy, until his uncle Ludovico, known as "il Moro" the Moore takes over as Italy heads towards the aptly named, "Italian Wars". Meanwhile a certain Leonardo da Vinci worked on a portrait of Ludovico Sforza's ladyfriend Cecilia Gallerani who is turned into "The lady with the ermine".
Tue, January 31, 2023
152 - Duke Francesco Sforza and his sex-crazed son (1450 - 1568)
Shortly after becoming duke, Francesco Sforza has to deal with a war against Venice, but then the peace of Lodi and the Italic league allow him some time to consolidate his power and start building projects in Milan, as well as chase after women, ending his life with a total of 35 children, only 8 of which were legitimate. His son Galeazzo Maria takes over and the only things he seems good at are spending money and satisfying his desires.
Tue, January 17, 2023
151 - Milan from Visconti to Sforza (1447 - 1450)
After the death of Duke Filippo Maria Visconti of Milan, a succession crisis has everyone in on the game and Venice gobbling up cities. In the end, will Bianca Maria Visconti and her husband, Francesco Sforza , manage to stake her claim? Also some naughtiness in the bedroom going on here.
Tue, January 10, 2023
5th anniversary
On 3rd January we celebrated the 5th anniversary of the "A History of Italy" podcast. In this special episode we will talk about: How the podcast is doing and where it's going The Italian 2022 elections and Meloni government Correspondence from listeners A short version of my life story And we end with the acclaimed sketch of San Marino
Sun, January 01, 2023
2023 announcement and send in questions and comments
Just a quick announcement on a release delay and to invite you to send in questions and comments or existential angst for the 5th anniversary episode coming out on 10th January 2023
Tue, December 20, 2022
150 - Decline of the Savoy and the Holy Shroud of Turin (1451 - 1490)
We go back to the north west to visit with Piedmont and the house of Savoy to take them out of the 15th century as they go through a period of decline with the rising power of France threatening their independence. It is in this period, in 1553, that the Savoy acquire the Holy Shroud, which was supposed to have been the burial cloth of Jesus Christ himself... or was it just one of histories most elaborate middle aged hoaxes?
Tue, December 13, 2022
149 The Genoa of Columbus (1442 - 1492)
We close out the 15th century for Genoa with things not looking too great thanks to the advancing Ottomans in the Eastern Mediterranean and in parallel follow the life of one of Genoa's most famous sons, Christopher Columbus in his early life and follow the adventures of his body after his death before reflecting on his legacy.
Tue, December 06, 2022
148 - Peak and twilight of the Magnificent (1478 - 1492)
After the failed Pazzi conspiracy and its bloody vengeful aftermath, Lorenzo has to face war against pope Sixtus IV AND Naples AND Urbino. As if that wasn't enough also plague and more plots. Then, would you believe it, another war, the salt war of Ferrara and once all that is over, a good old teenage Cardinal is on the way
Tue, November 15, 2022
147 - The conpiracy of the crazies (1476 - 1478)
Things heat up as the animosity between the Medici and pope Sixtus IV leads to one of the most infamous conspiracies in history: the Pazzi conspiracy, set up to kill Giuliano and Lorenzo De Medici and overthrow the Signoria, the government of Florence
Tue, November 08, 2022
Interview with Philippa Gregory on Maria Beatrice D'Este
We got the chance to talk to bestselling author, Philippa Gregory, about one of the characters of her new book, Dawnlands,Maria Beatrice D'Este, a real historical figure as well as a character, daughter of Duke Alfonso IV of Modena and Reggio Emilia and Queen of England, married to King James II. Philippa has written many historical novels whch include "The other Boleyn girl" and "The White Queen"
Mon, October 31, 2022
Halloween special: Azzurrina, the ghost of Montebello
We imagine the story behind the ghost of Montebello Castle, supposedly that of Gwendalina, nicknamed "Azzurrina", (little blue) due to her strange blueish hair. The little girl is said to have vanished without a trace in 1375, leaving many legends behind.
Fri, October 28, 2022
F100: 04 The March on Rome
One hundred years ago, a series of events between 24th and 31st October 1922 culminated in Fascist leader Benito Mussolini taking power in what is known as "The March on Rome". Did the Black shirts actually take Rome by force? Why did the government not put a stop to the events? Together we will take a look at the fateful days in which Fascism came to power.
Tue, October 18, 2022
146 - Lorenzo vs Sixtus and America's beautiful cousin (1471 - 1476)
The rivalry between Lorenzo de Medici and pope Sixtus IV, Francesco della Rovere starts to heat up as they clash over lands and resources, reaching very dangerous levels. Meanwhile the Medici brothers find time for another great tournament and Giuliano finds love with the most beautiful woman in Florence, the "living Venus" Simonetta Vespucci, whose name leads us into a digression on where America got its name.
Tue, October 04, 2022
145 - Fleeting youth, Lorenzo de Medici's early years (1468 - 1471)
Before the responsibility of government is handed over to him at his father's death and before getting married the statesman, banker, lover of philosophy and poet Lorenzo De Medici takes a few last opportunities at carefree youth with a tournament and party that would never be forgot.
Tue, September 20, 2022
144 - A sickly father, a magnificent mother amd balls (1464 - 1468)
Piero De Medici takes over the shadow government of Florence at the death of his father and with the help of his wife and son manages to hold the reigns, overcome a plot on his life and a war with a rather interesting character, Bartolomeo Colleoni
Tue, September 06, 2022
143 Cosimus Medices Pater Patriae (1429 - 1464)
We finally get into the Medici in style with the man who is considered the founder of the family's great fortune and political dominance. We follow Cosimo de Medici as he slowly asserts his power over the Republic of Florence with careful internal and external political manoeuvring to form what some have called the "crypto-signoria" of the Medici, all the whole increasing theri vast wealth in the face of many perils.
Tue, September 06, 2022
143 Cosimus Medices Pater Patriae (1429 - 1464)
We finally get into the Medici in style with the man who is considered the founder of the family's great fortune and political dominance. We follow Cosimo de Medici as he slowly asserts his power over the Republic of Florence with careful internal and external political manoeuvring to form what some have called the "crypto-signoria" of the Medici, all the whole increasing theri vast wealth in the face of many perils.
Tue, August 30, 2022
142 - pope-ing out of the Middle ages (1447 - 1492)
We accompany the last set of popes of the middle ages, from Nicholas V to Innocent VIII as they take us out of th middle ages with the usual intrigue in the Italian peninsula with Naples,Florence, Milan and Venice as well as many others as the city of Rome takes the shape we would start to recognise today.
Tue, August 30, 2022
142 - Pope-ing out of the Middle ages (1447 - 1492)
We accompany the last set of popes of the middle ages, from Nicholas V to Innocent VIII as they take us out of th middle ages with the usual intrigue in the Italian peninsula with Naples,Florence, Milan and Venice as well as many others as the city of Rome takes the shape we would start to recognise today.
Tue, August 09, 2022
141 - The popes are back in business (1417 - 1447)
After the healing of the western schism in 1417, new pope Martin V must get his papal state sunder control which means dealing with a whole load of issue such as brigands, mercenary captains, pushy neighbours, unruly lords and a lack of cash. We then see how his successor, Eugene IV managed to muck everything up before managing to sort tit all out again, more or less.
Tue, August 02, 2022
140 - King Ferdinand's woes (1458 - 1492)
After the death of Alphonse the Magnanimous, his son, Ferdinad, has quite a time managing to hold on to the kingdom of Naples what with revolting Barons, meddling popes and even an Ottoman invasion! Will the poor man ever get any peace and quiet?
Tue, July 19, 2022
AMM: Paolo Borsellino and Rita Atria
On the 30th anniversary of his death, we look at the life and struggle of anti-mafia investigative magistrate Paolo Borsellino up to his tragic killing and how he crossed path with a brave young girl of only 17, willing to give up the life she had known in search of justice, Rita Atria.
Tue, July 12, 2022
139 - King Alphonse of Naples (1436 - 1458)
We go back a little to see how Alphonse V of Aragon actually got onto the throne of Naples and what he had to put up with once he got there dealing with Milan, Venice, Genoa and Florence, before a rather unprecedented alliance in 1454 under the "Italic League"
Tue, June 21, 2022
138 - Aragonese Sardinia and Sicily (1410 - 1500)
We take a quick look at some of the situations and key events in Sardinia and Sicily in the 15th century as the Aragonese consolidate their hold over their new possessions
Tue, June 07, 2022
137 - The Republic of San Marino
While attempting to catch up with our studies, we go outside (or inside) Italy to look at a foreign country within our borders up to the 15th century and find out why we have yet another independent country on the peninsula.
Tue, May 31, 2022
Special: Anti-Judaism in Medieval Italy - The case of Simonino da Trento with Lorenzo Paluan
We explore a tragic travesty of justice as we look into the anti-jewish case of Simonino da Trento, a young boy who was found dead in 1475 and whose murder was blamed on the local Jewish community with no tangible proof, leading to their very rapid trial and execution.
Wed, May 25, 2022
Recap 06: Episode 101 - 136
After quite a long tour (36 episodes) we take our routine look back to recap what we have been over, moving around Italy and back and forth in time
Tue, May 10, 2022
136 - Savoy from count to duke to pope (1391 - 1451)
We follow little count Amedeo VIII as he comes to power and manages to not only expand, consolidate and organise first his county and then duchy, but even has a go at being pope for a while!
Tue, May 03, 2022
Anti-mafia martyrs - Pio La Torre, the mafia fighting communist
We take a look at the life and struggle of Sicilian communist party leader Pio La Torre, who spent his whole life trying to oppose Cosa Nostra for the good of the opressed, even when it meant going against his own party.
Tue, April 26, 2022
F100: Before Evil - Interview with Brandon Gauthier on Benito Mussolini
As we finish celebrating the 77th anniversary of our liberation from the Fascist government and Nazi occupiers, I talk to author Brandon Gauthier about his new book, which explores the early lives of notirious dictators such as Hitler, Stalin and Kim.
Tue, April 12, 2022
135 - Savoy - different coloured counts and a murder mystery (1255 - 1391)
We continue catching up with the house of Savoy picking up in 1255 and, after some zig-zagging succession, see the "colourful" green count Amedeo VI and then try to discover what really happened to his son, Amedeo VII the Red count, as the counts slowly continue to expand their lands and influence in France and north-west Italy.
Tue, April 05, 2022
Announcement: 200th upload, new platform, new logo and happy birthday!
We have reached the 200th upload ( regular episodes plus extras) and have moved to a new platform. To celebrate this as well as my 45th birthday we are unveiling the new "A History of Italy" logo
Tue, March 22, 2022
134 - Piedmont and the rise of the house of Savoy
We catch the region of piedmont up to the 13th century and then start to take a look at the rise of the house of Savoy, beginning with its founder Umberto Biancamano, he of the white hand (for some reason).
Tue, March 15, 2022
F100: 03b The occupation of Fiume part 02
The second part of our chat on the occupation of Fiume where we look at the occupation itself and the life of D'Annunzio after the endeavor
Tue, March 08, 2022
F100: 03a The occupation of Fiume - part 01
We draw a profile of the Italian poet and activist Gabriele D'Annunzio up to the time in which he takes command of an expedition to take the city of Fiume, the current day Croatian city of Rijeka. We take a look at his extreme lifestyle of women, drugs and excesses such as being the first recognised Italian toappear naked in a photo! We also have a look at the situation in Italy between WWI and the expedition to Fiume in 1919.
Tue, March 01, 2022
F100 Memories of Ukraine - an Italian ode to Odessa
In honour of the Ukrainian people, I look back at my fond memories of Ukraine in the "Italian" city of Odessa.
Fri, February 25, 2022
Test
Technical test
Tue, February 22, 2022
133 – catching up with Genoa… again (1310 – 1442)
and 15th century Genoa to catch up on all their wars with Venice and the Aragonese as well as all the internal infighting between the various Doria, Spinola, Fieschi, Grimaldi and Campofregaso for which external rulers are constantly called in, the, Anjou, Milan, France, Monferrato, milan again and so on.
Tue, February 08, 2022
F100: The crystallisation of totalitarianism
We take a break from our narrative of the history of Fascism to talk about the definition of Totalitarianism with Jackson Van Uden. Jackson is a Historian, Author and Podcaster. He hosts the History with Jackson YouTube channel and Podcast where he speaks about History from across the ages, and interviews historians about their research. As an author he has written several articles on a variety of different topics and has also recently published a book entitled the ’The Crystallisation of Totalitarianism’.
Tue, February 01, 2022
132 The end of the Visconti- how to lose a duchy
Filippo Maria Visconti, now sole Duke of Milan, has a bit of time to take a breather, before the chaos of the wars of Lombardy vs Venice and Florence, with special guest stars
Tue, February 01, 2022
123 – The end of the Visconti: how to lose a duchy (1410 – 1447)
Filippo Maria Visconti, now sole Duke of Milan, has a bit of time to take a breather, before the chaos of the wars of Lombardy vs Venice and Florence, with special guest stars
Tue, January 25, 2022
131 – Milan, chaos in the duchy (1402 – 1412)
After the untimely death of the first duke of Milan, Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the duchy is thrown into turmoil as the widow, Caterina Visconti attempts to hold onto the realm of her sons, Giovanni Maria and Filippo Maria through internal intrigue and external military pressure from Florence, Venice and many others trying to take advantage of Milan's moment of weakness.
Thu, January 13, 2022
130 – The father of the father of the nation: the rise of the Medici (1402 – 1428)
We follow the life and times of Giovanni di Bicci De Medici, shrewd banker and able politician as he navigates the complicated waters of early 15th century Florentine politics as the republic prepares to kick of an age of unprecedented cultural renewal: the Renaissance
Tue, January 04, 2022
4th anniversary episode
We celebrate our 4th anniversary by announcing a new podcast: The K-Rock Chelsea Hotel; the 1 millionth global listen and a guest episode about 14th century Italy on The History of England podcast.
Wed, December 29, 2021
Re-release: 129 – Catherine of Siena – Medieval UN ambassador
In this episode we follow the last part of the life of St Catherine of Siena as her fame and influence grows to International levels and she deals with princes and popes alike, going through the war of the eight saints, the Ciompi revolt and the Great Western Schism, all the while battling against her own body.
Sat, December 25, 2021
Happy Whatever episode
Just to wish you a Merry Christmas, happy Kwanza, Sol Invictus, Saturnalia, to hope you had a good Diwali or Hanukah and in general to wish you a merry whatever this period is for you, even if it's nothing at all. We come bearing audio gifts! AUGURI
Tue, December 21, 2021
129 – Catherine of Siena – Medieval UN ambassador
In this episode we follow the last part of the life of St Catherine of Siena as her fame and influence grows to International levels and she deals with princes and popes alike, going through the war of the eight saints, the Ciompi revolt and the Great Western Schism, all the while battling against her own body.
Tue, December 14, 2021
128 – Caterina of Siena: God's teenage rebel
We look at the early life of Catherine of Siena (Caterina da Siena) as she has her first visions and sets off at a very young age open her life as a mystic, religious and political activist in mid 14th century
Tue, December 07, 2021
127 – Milan vs Florence: fight to the death (1395 – 1402)
unstoppable expansion of the newly formed Duchy of Milan. Will they manage? Or will Gian Galeazzo Visconti complete his vision of including Florence in his dominions.
Wed, December 01, 2021
126 – Visconti family feud and a new duchy is born (1378 – 1395)
We see how the power-sharing solution for the government of Milan comes crashing down with power once again in the hands of a single man: Gian Galeazzo Visconti, who, after inheriting the holdings of his father and uncle, will create a Duchy that will last for centuries. meanwhile we also try and keep up with Florence and the other Tuscan cities as well as those of Piedmont Lombardi and benedetto as they do their best to counter the expansion of the new Duchy.
Tue, November 23, 2021
The Great Q & A session
To celebrate reaching episode 125, we have a special episode with questions from our wonderful listeners We get to talk about Latin, Lombards, Normans, noble houses, strange surnames, the mafia, fascism and much, much more.
Tue, November 16, 2021
125 – War and rebellion in Tuscany (1348 to 1382)
After seeing the gruesome spectacle of the plague in Florence through the eyes of Giovani bocaccio we follow the rising tension in the city and all over Tuscany that would eventually erupt in the rebellion known as the "Revolt of the Ciompi". In the meantime, Florence also finds time to participate in the war of the eight Saints. Lots of fun in the 14th century for Tuscany!
Tue, November 09, 2021
124 – Troubled Tuscan times and Boccaccio's Decameron
After following Florence and Tuscany through a mini golden age from the 1280's to the 1330's we see things really start to go downhill with social tensions between the Arti Maggiori, the greater guilds, and the arti minori, the lesser guilds, exacerbated also by the very brief dominion over Florence by Walter of Brienne. We then take a brief look at the life of Giovani bocaccio and see the plague through his eyes with his great work the Decameron.
Sun, October 31, 2021
Halloween Special: The Ghost of Bardi Castle
In this special Halloween episode we explore the castle of Bardi in the Apennines of Parma. The ghost is supposedly that of Moroello, the captain of the castle garrison who is said to have died along with his beloved Soleste in the late 15th century.
Tue, October 26, 2021
123 – The Tuscan scene and Florence rising (1302 – 1327)
area. We see how things went with the Guelphs and Ghibellines inside and outside the region with all the "international" players while all the while the corporations make their way into the halls of power.
Wed, October 20, 2021
Tech update test and free "NewsCappuccino" episode
I'm very sorry but I am updating my tracking system. As an apology: a free episode of one of the features you can find on Patreon, NewsCappuccino, enjoy!
Tue, October 19, 2021
122 – Braccio da Montone's last stand (1417 – 1424)
the final chapter of his story: will he rise to even greater glory and perhaps cut out a kingdom in central Italy for himself or will it all come crashing down? Will the newly elected Pope Martin the fifth manage to set up a coalition strong enough to beat this great soldier?
Wed, October 13, 2021
121 Braccio da Montone, Lord of Perugia (1407 – 1417)
Braccio's fame increases as he wins victory after victory, in central Italy, against Naples and in his involvement in the Great Western Schism, all the while with his eye on Perugia.
Tue, October 05, 2021
120 – Braccio da Montone, early life of a condottiero (1368 – 1406)
Fortebraccio, known as Braccio da Montone
Tue, September 21, 2021
119 – Joanna II of Naples and some schism fixing
We see the rather naughty and turbulent reign of Joanna II of Naples. Did she really deserve the nickname "the insatiable" or even "the mad"? Or was it just bad press?
Tue, September 14, 2021
Update and announcement
Quick update to try and get back on schedule and make a call for questions for a Q and A episode.
Wed, September 01, 2021
Italian citizenship milestones – Crossover with "The Italian Citizenship Podcast"
A look at some important dates for Italian citizenship and what was happening in those periods
Tue, August 17, 2021
118 Sicily goes Spanish and Naples gets big ideas (1372 – 1414)
We see how Sicily loses its independence to the Spanish and then cross over to the mainland to see how king Ladislaus of Naples gets some big ideas on expanding his kingdom.
Tue, August 03, 2021
The bagpipes of resistance – Crossover ep. with "The History of England"
In this very special crossover episode, we got the chance to host an episode on the podcast of one of our all-time heroes, David Crowther of "The History of England". In this episode we talk about operation "tombola", the allied and partisan attack on a strategic Nazi position in a small town in Northern Italy.
Wed, July 21, 2021
117 – Eleonora of Arborea and the fall of Sardinia (1326 – 1410)
The life and times of the great "Giudchessa" and the fall of Sardinia to the Spanish.
Thu, June 17, 2021
NewsCappuccino: Roman helmets and insulting Austria – The Italian national anthem
onour of Italy's splendid performance in the EURO cup, a taste on what you can hear on Patreon about the content of the Italian national anthem: the battle of Legnano, Scipio Africanus, the Sicilian Vespers and making fun go Austria.
Tue, June 15, 2021
F100: 02 Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini, early years
n the second episode of Fascism 100, the series on the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Fascist party, we look at the life of Benito Andrea Amilcare Mussolini from his birth on 29th July 1883 to 1921 when the first Fascist delegates were elected to the Italian parliament.
Wed, June 09, 2021
116 – Venice in mortal peril (1356 – 1400)
After an attempt at legalising prostitution, the Dolphin doge cannot quite fight off a Hungarian threat, then things with Genoa get so heated over the possession of Eastern Mediterranean islands that Venice stares destruction in the face with enemies at the gates and even in the lagoon.
Wed, June 02, 2021
Special: Republic Day 2021
A repeat episode on the vote that changed Italian History, abolishing the Monarchy and creating the Italian Republic on 2nd June 1946, with all the complications and tensions leading up to and following the vote.
Tue, June 01, 2021
115 – Hard times for Venice, a very naughty doge and some funny names (1339 – 1356)
We catch Venice up to the mid 14th century following storms, floods earthquakes, plagues and all other kinds of lovely things. Then we see a trattori doge, a big nose and a dolphin ruler. All this while trying keep up the struggle against the Genoese and Turks at sea as well as the Hungarians on land, tough times for Venice indeed.
Sun, May 23, 2021
Anti-mafia martyrs: Giovanni Falcone
One of the Mafia's most dangerous foes was killed on 23rd May 1992. Anti.Mafia investigative magistrate Giovanni Falcone was responsible for putting hundreds of mafiosi behind bars and his investigation into a tender fixing operation expanded into one of the largest mafia trials in Italian history. His later work at the ministry of the interior led to some of the toughest anti-mafia legislation ever passed.
Tue, May 18, 2021
114 – More Milan and popey come home (1345 – 1385)
The continuing consolidation of Milan under Bernabò and Galeazzo Visconti and the start of the Great Western Schism
Sat, May 15, 2021
F100: 01 What is Fascism?
in this first episode of the mini series we explore the meaning of fascism, with particular reference to the Italian experience up until the death of Benito Mussolini in 1945.
Tue, May 11, 2021
Coming soon: Fascism 100
A new miniseries tracing the rise and fall of Italian Fascism to uncover some of the important lessons that can be learned for the present.
Sun, May 09, 2021
Special: The Aldo Moro assassination with Lorenzo Paluan
We attempt to unravel the complicated threads of one of the darkest and most intricate affairs of modern Italian history: the kidnapping and assassination of Also Moro
Wed, May 05, 2021
113 – The definitive death of communal Milan (1339 – 1354)
Milan passes from Azzone Visconti to Giovanni and Luchino, expanding among the constantly warring city states of Northern Italy.
Thu, April 08, 2021
Update, conference and vote!
An update on the podcast schedule, a reminder to get your tickets for the intelligent speech conference and to vote for the podcast at the Premio Italia Medieval
Tue, March 30, 2021
112 – Queen Joanna of Naples (1345 – 1382)
We follow Queen Joanna of Naples as she goes through three more husbands, ever searching for the right one, but getting ambitious power grabbing insensitive men or total nut jobs until she finally settles on the one who will see her to her end. Meanwhile she will guide the kingdom of Naples through the Sicilian question, rebellions, the plague, warring bandits and the great Western schism.
Tue, March 23, 2021
Crossover: Colombus and Genoa with the History of North America
The famous/notorious Italian explorer and the city of his birth in this interview with Mark Vinet of the "History of North America podcast
Mon, March 08, 2021
Interview: Jennifer Anton, author of "Under the Light of the Italian Moon"
We had a great chat with Jennifer Anton, author of the novel "Under the Light of the Italian Moon"
Sun, March 07, 2021
Intelligent Speech Conference 2021 – 24th April
The Intelligent Speech Conference is back! Little old me will be speaking alongside such podcasting greats as David Crowther, Benjamin Jacobs, Liz Covart, Steve Guerra, Bry and Fry of Pontifacts, Marco Capelli and many more! head over to: https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/product/intelligent-speech-spring-2021/ to get your early bird tickets!
Tue, March 02, 2021
111 – Joanna of Naples, teenage queen with a boring husband (1326 – 1345)
the rise to the throne of Joanna of Naples, from her marriage at a young age to Andrew. son of the Angevine king of Hungary to her coronation as a teenager after the death of her grandfather Robert of Naples. We will see how her joyful, lively character clashed with that of her husband as complications rose in the kingdom around them, reaching dire consequqnces.
Wed, February 17, 2021
110 – Cola fizzes and goes flat (1347 – 1354)
After his great rise to power in Rome, we see Cola di Rienzo crash and burn... literally
Wed, February 10, 2021
109 – Popeless Rome and the rise of Cola (not the drink)
We take a look at what was happening in Rome while the popes were off in Avignon. We quickly see how Clement V dealt with the movement of Fra Dolcino (spoiler: violently) and then how John XXII and his successor, Gregory XII did. We then introduce Clement VI just in time for him to receive a delegation from Rome headed by a charistmatic, handsome young notary called Cola di Rienzo who, with the support of papal authority, got back to Rome and managed to put himself in the driver's seat quite quickly, even overcoming the resistance of the Roman noble families... for now.
Sun, February 07, 2021
Fill-in episode – 2021 Italian government crisis
While waiting to get back on track with the regular podcast (back soon), we take the opportunity to update you on history in the making: the current mid-pandemic government crisis
Tue, February 02, 2021
Vote for A History of Italy for the Premio Italia Medioevale
Help us by voting for A History of Italy! http://www.italiamedievale.org/portale/premio-italia-medievale/
Tue, January 19, 2021
108 – Italians against stairs
Mastino II Della Scala gets too big for his own good and Venice, Florence and Milan move in to bring him down a rung or two
Tue, January 12, 2021
107 – An unexpected king
While everyone (the Pope, the king of France, Milan, Verona, Venice, Florence etc.) is manoeuvring in northern Italy along comes an unexpected king, John of Luxembourg, king of Bohemia. Will he be able to unite the northern cities?
Tue, January 05, 2021
106 – An imperial tour of Italy (1327-1329)
We follow the descent into Italy of Holy Roman Emperor Luis IV to visit with the Visconti in Milan, the Dalla Scala in Verona, the Este of Ferrara, the Castracani in Lucca and the Gonzaga in Mantua. At the same time we see the struggle between emperor and pope and get a reminder fo the situation in Naples and Sicily.
Wed, December 23, 2020
105 – The battle of the Bucket (1325)
We take a look at the 1325 battle of Zappolino between Modena and her Ghibelline allies and Bologna and her Guelph ones and how, after one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the Iyaian middle ages, the Modenese cam home with a bucket (and heaps of cash).
Tue, December 15, 2020
104 – The last Sardinian Judicate (1323-1326)
After a quick recap of what was going on around Italy in 1323, we get to the Aragonese invasion of Sardinia that put a definitive end to the presence of the Republic of Pisa on the island leaving the Judicate of Arborea as the last of the old four Judicates surrounded by the new "Kingdom of Sardinia"
Tue, December 08, 2020
103 – Catching up with Genoa (up to 1310's)
It's about time we stop ignoring poor old Genoa up in the top left-hand corner of the country and bring her up-to-date. We take a really quick race from the fall of the Western Roman Empire to Genoa in the 14th century: it's battles against Saracens, Pisans and Venitians as it fights to assert itself as a powerful maritime republic.
Tue, December 01, 2020
102 – Venice kicks off its 14th century (up to 1310's)
We go back to one of our favorite destinations: Venice, which we last left at the start of the 13th century to bring the maritime republic up to the 14th. We see some crazy laws as the republic move more and more to an oligarchy and has bit of trouble as the 14th starts up, especially with the pope.
Sat, November 28, 2020
The first great MEGA-RECAP launch
After 100 episodes you might want a general overview of the story so far from 476 - 1310: The emperors, the naughty popes and who got a word stuck in which orifice. All of the things you may have forgotten in this over one hour episode that sums up the first 800+ years of "A History of Italy". Available ad-free to Patreon supporters and those who make a recommended $5.00 donation on Paypal. Head over to our Patreon page or get in touch to get a hold of the episode!
Tue, November 24, 2020
Interview – Sim Salis on comedy in the Berlusconi era, laughter as resistance
We chat to Italian TV presenter, comedian and podcaster Sim Salis about his experience growing up and working in comedy in the Berlusconi years as well as the value of comedy not only in resistance to oppression, but also as a precious tool for conflict resolution.
Tue, November 17, 2020
101 – The many paths to communal demise (up to early 1300's)
As we really dig into the 14th century, we look at an overview of the different ways in which the communes turned into the signorie, cities and groups of cities ruled over by a single hereditary ruler.
Tue, November 10, 2020
Recap 05 – From episode 077 to 100
We go back over around 50 years from the death of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II to beyond 1300 to retrace the steps of the kingdom of Sicily, the war of the Sicilian Vespers, the northern communes and maritime republics as well as looking over at Sardinia and keeping an eye as always on the papacy.
Tue, November 03, 2020
Berlusconi and Bunga Bunga part 3
We arrive at the third and last Berlusconi government (so far) from 2008 to 2011 and his downfall under the onslaught of the EU, economic crisis, legal trouble and Bunga Bunga.
Tue, October 27, 2020
Berlusconi and Bunga Bunga part 2
In this second part of our review of Wondery's "Bunga Bunga" podcast and our memories of the Berlusconi era, we look at the 2001 - 2006 legislation, lead by Berlusconi and the longest lasting in Italian republican history
Tue, October 20, 2020
Berlusconi and Bunga Bunga part 1
Following the publication of Wondery's excellent "Bunga Bunga" podcast, with co-host and legal expert Matteo Marconi we review the show and look back on our own experience of the Berlusconi era. In this episode his first government experience in 1994.
Tue, October 13, 2020
100 – An interview the godfather of history podcasting and more
For our 100th episode we have the wishes from fellow podcasters and an interview with Mike Duncan, creator of the History of Rome, Revolutions and the book "The Storm Before the Storm". We also have an interview with one of the starts of the A History of Italy sketches.
Tue, October 06, 2020
099 – The Visconti lose Milan and take it back again
Matte Visconti tries to pass power to his son Galeazzo, who ends up making a mess and losing the city to the Della Torre for almost a decade before would-be Holy Roman Emperor Henry VII come sto Milan and puts the Visconti back in power for the next few centuries, despite their own best efforts to do each other in. We also see some rather annoyed popes and of course a battle with Italians on both sides as usual.
Mon, September 28, 2020
098 – The Visconti take Milan, Act 1
We see the rise of the Visconti family in Milan as they battle the power of the Della Torre for control over the city and subsequently much of Northern Italy. First however, I take a personal look at my relationship with Milan and tell the story of how my mother was an unwitting baby sitter to the Mafia.
Tue, September 15, 2020
Anti-mafia martyrs: Father Pino Puglisi
words and culture, to give the citizens of his city schools, homes all the elements that are fundamental rights, stolen by the Mafia and then handed out as favours.
Tue, September 08, 2020
097 – Dante Alighieri and the Divine Comedy
We have a look at the opus magna of Dante Alighieri, the Divine Comedy, before seeing him off to the end of his days and beyond, with the adventures of his corpse
Thu, September 03, 2020
Anti-mafia martyrs: Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa
On 3rd September, the anniversary of his death, we look at the struggle against organised crime of Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, general of the Italian Carabinieri police force who dedicated his life to the fight against terrorism and the Sicilian Mafia.
Tue, September 01, 2020
Anti-mafia martyrs series launch
We are going to take a look at some of the brave men and women who have given their lives to fight organised crime in Italy. known as "Le Mafie", the mafias, which include Cosa Nostra, the 'Ndrangheta, the Stidda, the Sacra Corona Unita and the Camorra. On the anniversary of their deaths, we will look at the lives and struggle of people such as General Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, Peppino Impastato, Pio La Torre, Giovanni Falcone, Paolo Borsellino and Don Pino Puglisi just to nae a few.
Wed, August 26, 2020
096 – Florence goes black and white and Dante gets involved
After definitively defeating the Ghibellines, the Florentine Guelphs need new enemies so they split into White and Black Guelphs, catching Dante Alighieri, who had entered politics just a few years before, in a crossfire that will have dire consequences. On a literary level, he starts to get the idea of a sort od mid life crisis travel book...
Wed, August 19, 2020
095 – Young Dante Alighieri and Florence
We start to take a look at the life and times of the great poet Dante Alighieri, taking the opportunity to look more closely at the history of his city, Florence.
Sun, August 02, 2020
094 – Naples vs Sicily
We see how the descent of Emperor Henry VII reignites the conflict between Frederick of Sicily and the new king of Naples, Robert. The animosity will last as long as the two men live.
Sat, July 18, 2020
093 – A change of scenery for the papacy and an anachronistic emperor
The papacy, under Clement V heads off for its long exile to Avignone and then Holy Roman Emperor Henry VII tries to move back the clock on the Italian scene.
Fri, June 26, 2020
092 – Boniface VIII peaks and crashes
1298- 1303 Boniface VIII crushes the internal opposition of the Colonna, organises the first Jubilee, dabble in Italian politics including Florence and then clashes once again with Philipp IV of France, which seals his fate.
Sun, June 21, 2020
091 – Boniface VIII on the scene
1295 - 1297 We go back to the abdication of pope Celestine V in 1295 and see the rise to power of one of the most controverstial popes in history, Boniface VIII in this first of two episodes on the man and his time.
Fri, June 12, 2020
090 – Twilight of the Sardinian Judicates
Before finally getting on to the 14th century, we see how the end of the 13th marked the beginning of the end of the Sardinian Judicates, before of course going back to look at what they actually were.
Thu, June 04, 2020
089 – The "cannibal" count – an example of late 13th century Italian politics
the politics of late 13th century Pisa as an example of the general situation in the communes as well as touching on Sardinia.
Sat, May 16, 2020
088 – Twilight of the communes
Before saying goodbye to the 13th century, we take a quick tour of the peninsula to tie up some loose ends, such as the maritime, republics, Piedmont and the situation with the communes.
Fri, May 08, 2020
087 – Marco Polo part 2
Marco Polo finally leaves on his great voyage which will take him to the ends of the known earth to meet a whole series of different cultures to then come back to Venice and live though one of the republic's most dangerous moments
Thu, April 30, 2020
086 – Marco Polo part 1
In this first episode on the 13th century explorer Marco Polo we look at some background on Venice at his time and his family as well as introducing the figure of the Great Khan Kublai.
Sat, April 25, 2020
Special: 25th April Liberation
A special episode for the 75th anniversary of the liberation from Nazi and Fascist occupation
Fri, April 17, 2020
085 – The war of the Sicilian Vespers gets confusing
1285 - 1302 The War of the Italian Vespers gets quite confusing, but in the end finally leads to the Peace of Calbelotta in 1302 in which the island of Sicily is separated from the rest of the kingdom.
Fri, April 10, 2020
084 – The war of the Sicilian Vespers
1282 - 1285 The start of the War of the Sicilian Vespers and a strange duel to attempt to put an end to it.
Thu, April 02, 2020
083 – Who are these Aragonese anyway? With David Cot of "The History of Spain"
Before going into the war of the Italian Vespers, we get some help from David Cot of "The History of Spain" podcast to bring us u to date on the kingdom of Aragon and Peter III and his sons.
Fri, March 27, 2020
082 – Charles in charge and the Sicilian Vespers
1266-1282 Charles of Anjou settles down to govern his new kingdom... and make a mess if it, provoking the rebellion of the Sicilian Vespers.
Thu, March 19, 2020
081 – The last stand of the house of Staufen with guest host Marco Cappelli
Marco Cappelli tells us about the last stand of Conradine of Hohenstauen at the battle that took place near Marco's home town Tagliacozzo.
Fri, March 13, 2020
080 – Frederick II's boys and here come the French
1250 - 1266 We take a look at what happened to the sons of Frederick II, Conrad, Henry and Manfredi. In the case of Manfredi we see his rise to influence over almost all of Italy before it all came crashing down with the invasion of Charles of Anjou.
Thu, March 05, 2020
079 – The Prisoner King and the rest of Frederick II's boys
1248 -1272 We start taking a look at how things progressed after the death of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, starting with his son Enzo, who fell prisoner to the Coomune of Bologna, giving rise to a whole series of legends
Thu, February 27, 2020
078 – The Golden age of communes
We take a look at some of the factors that made the 13th century the golden age of the communes such as trade and finance as the consular communes transformed into popular communes as early signs of the coming era of the "signorie" loomed.
Thu, February 20, 2020
077 – The situation in the 13th century and revenge in Florence
We take a look at how our communes are evolving in the 13th century with the whole messy Guelphs and Ghibellines business and have a look at the legend of how the factions were formed in Florence with the tragic tale of Buondelmonte dei Buondelmonti, a real soap opera, Florentine style.
Tue, February 11, 2020
Recap 04: Episodes 051 – 076 from the Concordat of Worms to the death of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II
We stop for our usual recap to look back over episodes 051 to 076 going from the Concordat of Worms in 1122 to the death of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, with a look at the rise of the Commune city states and the maritime republics, Venice in particular.
Thu, February 06, 2020
076 – St. Francis of Assisi
We look at the life and ideas of one of the most famous and influential figures in religious and non religious history, a young man who deemed of being a great soldier, who became one of the greatest champions of peace.
Tue, January 21, 2020
075 – Heresies and the Inquisition
We take a break to look at the increase in heretical ideas and movement in the 12th and 13th centuries such as the Cathars and Waldensians and how the church decided to dea with the rising tide of critical opposition to it.
Tue, January 14, 2020
074 – Goodbye Freddie II
We see the reign of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II to its end as he faces off with Gregory IX and then Innocent IV, all the while dealing with the ever rebellious communes of northern Italy in their continuous struggle between pro-imperial Ghibellines and pro-papal Guelphs, up to the Battle of Parma in 1247.
Tue, January 07, 2020
073 – Frederick II stupor mundi (and a bit naughty)
1231 - 1237 We take a moment to look more into the provate life of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II and see how his court, as well as seeing a little naughtiness going on, was a cradle of culture and science. We than deal with a rebellion by his first born son Henry before we see a rematch of Empire vs Lombard League.
Sun, December 29, 2019
072 – Frederick II takes the reigns and trouble starts
1220 - 1231 After his coronation as Holy Roman Emperor in 1220, Frederick II has to first consolidate the south, facing the Muslim rebellion and then deal with the insistence of the popes for a new Crusade, an issue he will find a completely unprecedented solution for.
Thu, December 26, 2019
ChristmasCappuccino 2019
This is the special Christmas episode of NewsCappuccino, a feature available to Patreon supporters, offered to all listeners as a Christmas present.
Mon, December 23, 2019
071 – Wonderboy rising: Freddie II
1197 - 2020 We see the early life of Frederick I of Sicily, son of Constance of Sicily and Holy Roman Emperor Henry VI up to the point when he becomes Emperor Frederick II himself with great regret from the popes who had hoped to keep the crown of the empire and that of the kingdom of Sicily separate. Are we in for another great class between Empire and Papacy?
Thu, December 12, 2019
070 – No more Normans and Horrid Henry
1186 - 1197 We sadly saw goodbye to the Norman kings in Sicily and usher in a new era in which the Hohenstaufen, under emperor Henry VI, son of Barbarossa, extend their dominion from the north sea to the centre of the Meditteranean.
Wed, December 04, 2019
069 – Venice part 06
This is the last in our miniseries on Venice, taking us from the mid twelfth century back up to the notorious 4th Crusade, but not before we look at a 1997 attempt at Venetian independence using a WWII machine gun and a home-made tank called "Tanko"
Thu, November 28, 2019
068 – Venice part 05
This episode takes us through Venice in the 12th century, overcoming issues with Normans, Hungarians and seeing trouble starts with the Eastern Roman Empire as well as more interest towards the rest of Italy. Also there is a doge with an odd name and some confusion with the bodies of dead Saints.
Thu, November 14, 2019
067 – Venice part 04
After being guided into the new millenium by Domenico II Orsoleo, we follow the (all too high) rise and downfall of the family as Venice itself rises and falls along its way through the 11th century with its new Norman threat as the first crusade draws closer.
Thu, November 07, 2019
066 – Venice part 03
After addressing some listener questions on Venice, we first see Venice pass through a period of division and crisis before it finds a "saviour" in Pietro II Orsoleo who bring the city triumphantly into he new millenium.
Fri, November 01, 2019
065 – Venice part 02
After the danger of a Franish invasion passes in 810, we then follow the Venetians as they head for the new Millenium with a change of capital and facing new enemies, threats and opportunities.
Wed, October 23, 2019
064 – Venice part 01
We take another break from our chronological progress to take a look at Venice as we reach the fourth Crusade, the event that dramatically changed the maritime republic. IN this episode we go from the foundation to the Frankish attack in 810.
Tue, October 15, 2019
Assassinations crossover part 2 – The fall of the Borgias
This is the second and last part of a collaboration with Assassinations Podcast on the notorious Borgia family. First Niall Cooper focuses on Lucrezia Borgia and then I follow the downfall of the short-lived dynasty.
Tue, October 08, 2019
Assassinations crossover part 1 – The Rise of the Borgias
a collaboration episode with one of my favourite podcast, Assassinations Podcast. In this episode I talk about the rise of the Borgia family and Neil of Assassinations Podcast focuses on Cesare Borgia.
Tue, October 01, 2019
063 – After Legnano, the cool Crusade and the Italian one
1176 - 1204 We take a look at the aftermath of the battle of Legnano which saw the forces of the Lombard League victorious against Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. Then we take a quick look at the third and fourth Crusades.
Tue, September 24, 2019
062 – The battle of Legnano
1176 Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa and the Cities of the Lombard League gather their forces and clash at a small town outside of Milan, called Legnano. The battle would echo through the centuries to be remembered in Italian politics to this day.
Thu, September 12, 2019
061 – Prelude to Legnano
1166 - 1174 After the formation of the Lombard League of the communes of northern Italy a clash with Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa had become almost inevitable. Both sides now started to prepare for the confrontation that would decide the future of Italy.
Tue, September 03, 2019
Crossover 1 part 2 – With "The History of the Papacy" on the Lombards
In this first ever crossover episode, we talk to Steve Guerra of the History of the Papacy podcast about the Lombards. This is part 2 of 2.
Tue, August 27, 2019
Crossover 1 part 1 – With "The History of the Papacy" on the Lombards
In this first ever crossover episode, we talk to Steve Guerra of the History of the Papacy podcast about the Lombards. This is part 1 of 2.
Tue, August 20, 2019
060 – A communal storm arising
1162 - 1167 We see how after sorting out Milan, Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa also goes on to try and deal with pope Alexander III. Meanwhile, the communes start to learn that there can be strength in numbers, with the League of Verona in 1164 and the Lombard and Italic Leagues in 1167.
Wed, August 14, 2019
059 – Barbarossa brings the heat
1158 - 1162 After the diet of Roncaglia, we follow Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa as he tries to deal with a papal schism between Victor IV and Alexander III and then goes on to deal with the communes, particularly the every obstinate Milan.
Wed, August 07, 2019
058 – Byzantium is back and so is Barbarossa
1155 - 1158 We see an attempt by Eastern Roman Emperor Manuel Komnenus to bring at least part of Italy back into the empire, a peace between pope Hadrian IV and the Norman king William I. Then, of course there is the continuing struggle between Frederick Barbarossa and the northern communes headed by Milan.
Tue, July 30, 2019
057 – Hadrian and Frederick's troubles in Rome
1154 - 1155 Hadrian IV tries to come to terms with the Roman commune and its moral leader, Arnaldo da Brescia, but the results are not quite as they expected
Tue, July 23, 2019
056 – Communal growing pains, an English pope and Barbarossa on the scene
The communes start to feel they need some admin changes. We go from pope Eugene III through an Anastasius for a bit to the major hitter Hadrian IV. All the while Frederick Barbarossa starts to come into play
Fri, July 12, 2019
Fill in episode – Women's world cup and how offsides came to Pulaski, VA
While still doing a little dillying and a touch of dallying, we take a moment to look at the recent Women's Fifa soccer world cup and relive some soccer memories from the great state of Virginia.
Wed, July 03, 2019
Fill-in episode – A trip to Puglia and listener questions
While waiting to get back on track, we take a virtual trip to Puglia and answer some listener questions and comments
Thu, June 13, 2019
055 – A new Roman Republic and a kind-of crusade
1143 - 1147 n the first half of the 12th century, with communes popping up like mushrooms, Rome wasn't just gonna sit back and let them have all the fun. However, if there's something about Rome, it's that there is always a pope around.
Fri, June 07, 2019
054 – A troubled new kingdom and cantankerous communes
1130 - 1143 We accompany Duke Roger of Sicily, Puglia and Calabria in his attempt to set up a kingdom before we take a look around our spanking new communes.
Wed, May 29, 2019
053 – Guelfs, Ghibellines and Normans with big ideas
1122 - 1130 We finally get back to the chronological narration of Italian history, popping in to see a new Holy Roman Emperor, a new pope, or couple of popes and catch up with the ambitious Normans
Tue, May 21, 2019
052 – A wander around in the early 12th century
Having set up the start of the communes, we take a look at what it would be like to wander around an Italian city in the early 12th century
Tue, May 14, 2019
051 – Communes rising
We take a look at how a new form of local government, the Communes rose and gained their independence from the feudal powers that be,
Wed, May 01, 2019
Recap 03: Episodes 28 – 50 from the year 1000 to the concordat of Worms in 1122
Using th concordat of Worms as a stopping point, we look back over th episodes that cover from the year 1000 to the end of the investiture crisis in 1122.
Mon, April 22, 2019
050 – Arrivederci Arabs, the Emirate of Sicily part 2
We see the golden age of Muslim Sicily under the Fatimids and Kalbids before everything comes crashing down to to interval division and outside forces.
Mon, April 15, 2019
049 – Arrivederci Arabs, the Emirate of Sicily part 1
We take a look back at the Arab invasione of Sicily starting with the early raids in the seventh century, through the invasion of 827 up to the fall of the Aghlabids in the early tenth century.
Mon, April 01, 2019
048 – Bye bye Byzantines -The end of Byzantine Italy part 2
In the second part of this miniseries we go from the time of king Rotari of the Lombards at the end of the seventh century to the fall of Bai and the end of the Byzantine presence in Italy.
Wed, March 20, 2019
047 – Bye bye Byzantines – The end of Byzantine Italy part 1
We take a look back at the Byzantine presence in Italy, from the Gothic War in 535 up to the start of the seventh century.
Tue, March 05, 2019
046 – Matilda of Tuscany, the iron countess of Canossa, part 2
We continue the story of Matilda of Canossa as war breaks out with Emperor Henry IV. We then see yet another failed attempt at marriage, the end of the fight against Henry IV and how things went with his son and successor, Henry V while alone she tan one of the largest areas in Italy.
Mon, February 25, 2019
045 – Matilda of Tuscany, the iron countess of Canossa Part 1
1046 - 1080 We look at the life of Matilda of Canossa, starting from the history of her family through her childhood, the humiliation of Canossa and to the start of the war against Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV.
Sat, February 16, 2019
044 – Goodbye Henry, goodbye Matilda and a can of worms
We see how Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV ended up, as well as his long-term nemesis Matilda of Tuscany, countess of Canossa. Meanwhile we change couple of popes and get a new Emperor, yet another Henry as he also struggles with a couple of popes on their way to the concordat of Worms.
Sun, February 10, 2019
Interview – The massacre of the Foibe and the Italian Istrian exodus with Roberta Alessandra Belulovich
On the "giornata del ricordo", a commemoration to remember the victims of the Massacre of the Foibe in Istria and Venezia Giulia in 1943 and 1945, we talk to Roberta Alessandra Belulovich, an Istria Italian about her family history and the Istrian question.
Mon, February 04, 2019
043 – A crusading we will go
1095 - 1099 We see how Urban II took the investiture controversy to a whole different level and scored major PR points for the papacy with the first crusade.
Sun, January 27, 2019
Special: Italy's role in the holocaust
To commemorate Holocaust remembrance day, we look at Italy's role in the tragedy, from the initial indifference to the Jews in Italy, to the racial laws of 1938 and the deportations and killings of the war period.
Sun, January 20, 2019
042 – An "Urban" pope and an imperial soap opera
1087 - 1095 We follow the start of one of the most famous papacies in history, that of Urban II and his fight against Henry IV alongside the countess Matilda of Canossa as things get personal, while the Normans try to sort themselves out after the death of Robert Guiscard.
Sat, January 12, 2019
041 – A Runaway pope and the end of the Fox
1085 - 1087 After the turmoil of the papacy of Gregory VII, we see a pope that just didn't want the job and follow the final years of the great Norman Robert Guiscard.
Sat, January 05, 2019
NC 013 – Happy birthday podcast and national stereotypes
To celebrate the birthday of "A History of Italy" we are releasing a free versions of NewsCappuccino in which we talk about national stereotypes.
Thu, January 03, 2019
040 – Half-time in the investiture controversy
1077 - 1085 The investiture controversy heats up with an anti-king elected in Germany and an anti-pope elected by Henry IV who then take the fight against Gregory and Matilde down into Italy with the Normans of Robert Guiscard waiting in the wings.
Wed, December 26, 2018
Christmas 2018 – Italian Christmas past and present and a Christmas witch
We have a look at important events in Italy on and around Christmas as well as explore the traditions, including that of the Christmas witch.
Wed, December 19, 2018
039 – A sticky end and the humiliation of Canossa
1076 - 1077 Godfrey the Hunchback meets a sticky end and the investiture controversy reaches a high point and slips towards war
Wed, December 12, 2018
038 – Gregory VII and marriage counselling
1073 - 1076 We follow the marital problems of Matilde of Canossa and Godfrey the Hunchback of Lorain while pope Gregory VII rolled up his sleeves and get's down to some serious posing and reforming.
Wed, December 05, 2018
037 – The Normans run out of room and the papacy out of patience
1061 - 1073 The Normand, having conquered as much as they could in Southern Italy, head for Sicily while the struggle between the papacy and the empire heats up.
Wed, November 28, 2018
036 – Introducing a beard, a hunchback and Matilda
1052 - 1061 Bonifacio Attone of Canossa dies leaving his wife Beatrice and stepdaughter to first look to the pope and then marry Godfrey the Bearded while in the backgrounds a couple of popes come and go and we also see a change of emperors.
Thu, November 22, 2018
035 – The lion, the fox and the Great Schism
1047 - 1054 Once pope Leo IX takes power, we follow his rather disastrous decision to challenge the Normans and Robert Guiscard. After that, we have a quick look at the start of the Great East- West Schism.
Sun, November 11, 2018
034 – Another Henry, too many popes and naughtiness in the church
1039-1046 We follow the descent of Henry III into Italy and see how he deals with the church as a reform takes route
Sun, October 28, 2018
033 – Here come the Normans, there goes the neighbourhood
We take a look at the arrival of the Normans in Southern Italy at the start of the XI century and follow their participation in the anti-Byzantines rebellions of the 1040's.
Thu, October 18, 2018
032 – Saxons to Salians and a fake news legend
1024 - 1037 We look at the passage from Henry II to Conrad and look at the trouble caused for the new emperor by Bishop Aribert of Milan while he tries to consolidate his hold on Italy with the help of Bonifacio of Canossa and the new pope.
Wed, October 10, 2018
031 – A rebellion in the south, a lion in the north and how Henry II got on
1009 - 1024 We take a look at a forgotten rebellion in the south of Italy headed by an apple tree, check in with the Canossa family to observe their growing power in the north and then see how Holy Roman emperor Henry II got on when he made his way across the Alps.
Sun, September 30, 2018
Special: The massacre of Monte Sole
Between the 29th September and 5th October 1944, the Nazi occupiers of Italy, along with their Fascist allies, rounded up and killed almost 800 civilians, mostly elderly, women and children in the worst single episode of violence against the civilian population in Western Europe. The massacre occurred on the slopes of Monte Sole, south of Bologna.
Wed, September 26, 2018
030 – Saxons, Saracens, Sardinia
We leave Henry II waiting for a moment to look at the increasing Saracen raids in the early 11th century before taking a look at the unique history of the Sardinian "Giudicati".
Sun, September 16, 2018
029 – New millennium, nationalist myths, same old mess
1002 - 1013 As a new millennium dawns on the Italian pensala, we see that nothing much has changed, at least for the moment, as we see Henry II of Bavaria attempting to take power in Italy and then become emperor.
Mon, September 10, 2018
Special: 8th September 1943, from infamy to resistance
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the armistice between the Italian government and the allied forces we look at the fateful day the armistice was announced and the consequences for the Italian forces and people.
Mon, September 03, 2018
028 – The year 1000 and life for the average Giuseppe
After our recap episode, we take a look at the attitudes towards the year 1000 and have a look at what daily life was like for people around that year.
Thu, August 30, 2018
NC 003 – Identity crisis of a Brexit victim
We explore the concept of national identity and pride and look at additive rather than subtractive human pride.
Mon, August 27, 2018
Recap 02 – episodes 014 – 027
In this recap episode we look back over the period from the fall of the Lombard kingdom at the hands of Charlemagne in 774 to the year 1000.
Thu, August 23, 2018
NewsCappuccino 002 – On the possible third Italian republic and unity
A look at the paper is an opportunity to explain the make-up of the current government and prompts consideration about the state of Italian unity today.
Thu, August 23, 2018
NewsCappuccino 001 – Choosing coffee, choosing a government and a visit to Rome
In the bar today a conversation about the government between two men with Roman accents prompts memories of trips to the eternal city, inlacing one adventure riding with a coach-full of modern-day hippies.
Thu, August 23, 2018
NewsCappuccino 000 – Launch episode
Welcome to the new Paypal and patron-only feature of "A History of Italy": NewsCapuccino. In this programme we're going to take a look at current affairs, stories and memories, starting from Italy and Italian issues, but taking a look at the world as well.
Sun, August 19, 2018
027 – Yet another Otto (III)
983 - 1002 After the death of Otto II, we see how his young son was brought up to manhood under the regency of his mother Theophanu and his grandmother Adelaide of Italy and how he became an emperor with dreams of greatness, as well as how those dress clashed with reality
Sun, August 12, 2018
026 – Another Otto (II)
973 - 983 We take just a moment to mourn Otto I and then proceed to see how his son, Otto II, got on with his attempt to hold the Holy Roman Empire together and even try to expand to all of the Italian peninsula while dealing with the usual pope complications.
Sun, August 05, 2018
025 – Ottonian Italy
966 - 973 Otto I of Germany continues to consolidate his hold over Italy, attempting to go all the way south and dislodge the remaining Byzantine presence, meanwhile setting up his son with a Byzantine princess, Theophanu.
Fri, July 27, 2018
Interview – Daniela Pellacani on Ciro Menotti
We have a chat with Italian teacher and history enthusiast Daniela Pellacani from Carpi on one of the heroes of the Risorgimento, Ciro Menotti.
Sat, July 21, 2018
024 – Outstanding Otto and more mess from a porn pope
951 - 066 We take a look at the reign of the teenage oboe John XII and the start of the struggle between the papacy and the Holy Roman Empire
Sat, July 14, 2018
023 – Here come the Ottonians
932 - 955 We look at how Alberic II did after taking control of Rome from his mother Marozia and his stepfather Guido of Provence. Then we jave a look at the usual confusion in northern Italy before the descent of the Saxon king Otto I, while we wait for the unforgettable pope John Xii to come on the scene.
Sat, June 30, 2018
022 – More mischief from Marozia
910 - 932 We look at the second part of the incredible story of Marozia, as we use her family as an example of the chaos that was early tenth century Italy.
Thu, June 21, 2018
021 – Rowdy Roman Revelry: Marozia's pornocracy
897 - 910 We take a look at the situation of debauchery and corruption that Italy, and more specifically Rome, fell into during the ninth and tenth centuries, with a particular focus on the Tuscolo family and perhaps its most famous member, Marozia.
Wed, June 13, 2018
020 – Annoying anarchy
888- 926 We look at the anarchy Italy fell into after the end of the Carolingians with the dealings of such men as Berengarius of Friuli and Guy of Spoleto, intersperse with some more foreign kings and emperors.
Fri, June 08, 2018
019 – Feudal fun with the Franks
843- 887 We finish off the last of th Carolingians in Italy and take a look at the feudal system they brought with them into the county.
Wed, May 30, 2018
Special: Republic Day and an unprecedented institutional crisis
We look back over the history of the upcoming cementation of Republic Day, 2nd June and look at the current political situation in the light of the constitution that cam out of that historical moment.
Thu, May 24, 2018
018 – A clear-up on kingdoms and back up the boot in the ninth century
We first cleat up the concept of the "Kingdom of Italy" and then make our way back up from the Arab Emirate of Sicily to look at the Principality of Benevento, the Duchy of Naples and the Duchy of Spoleto in the ninth century as the Carolingians do their thing up north.
Thu, May 17, 2018
017 – Some silly Syracusans, some Saracens and Sicily, plus pirates
827-840 We leave the north for a while and take a look at Sicily. First we have a quick peak at the start of the Arab raids on the island in the early seventh century and then head back to the ninth when Sicily became an Arab Emirate.
Wed, May 09, 2018
016 – Italy after Charlemagne
800 - 840 We look at what happened up to and after the death of Charlemagne to see what his sons got up to.
Wed, May 02, 2018
Special: A load of baloney from Bologna part 2
The second part of a two-part episode on the history of the city of Bologna. Her ewe cover the modern and contemporary eras of the regional capital of Emilia Romagna
Thu, April 26, 2018
Special: A load of baloney from Bologna Part 1
This is the first part of a two-part series on the history of the city of Bologna, from pre-history to the end of the Middle Ages.
Wed, April 18, 2018
015 – A Confusing Christmas Coronation
795 - 800 We look at the election and tumultuous adventures of pope Leo III before he goes on to crown Charlemagne, thus determining the relations between the papacy and the budding Holy Roman Empire for centuries to come
Wed, April 11, 2018
014 – Carolingian Italy
We have a look at the system that Charlemagne set up in Italy, the administration, the economy and the educational reform
Wed, April 04, 2018
Recap 01 Episodes 001 – 013 from the fall of the Western Roman Empire to the fall of the Lombards
A recap of the first thirteen episodes that acts as a refresher before we move on to the Carolingian reign in Italy and the growing power of the papcy and the Holy Roman Empire
Wed, March 28, 2018
013 - A look at the Catholic church
We take a look back at the Catholic church as it's role in Italy increases with the arrival of the Franks.
Wed, March 28, 2018
Interview – Dario Pedrazzini on the Lombards
An interview with Dario Pedrazzini on the daily lives of the Lombards at the time of king Rothari from his book on the topic
Wed, March 28, 2018
013 – A look at the Catholic Church
33 - 774 We take a step back in time to fill in the history of the Catholic Church up t the point in our narrative, i.e. the fall of the Lombard kingdom in 774.
Wed, March 21, 2018
012 – Here come the Franks
771-774 The Franks make their definitive entrance into Italy and the existence of the Lombard kingdom hangs in the balance. We take a look at how the events really went and then go back, following the story of Alessandro Manzoni's "Adlechi" to see a juicier version of the events.
Wed, March 14, 2018
011 – The Lombards' last linger in the limelight
744 - 770 From the endow the reign of Aistulf in 756 to the hight of power of king Desiderius, who by 770 gad taken the Lombards to their maximum expansion and influence
Wed, March 07, 2018
Special: The 2018 Italian election
An explanation and recap of the 2018 Italian election
Wed, February 28, 2018
010 – Getting tired of living with the Lombards
712 - 744 Liutprand, one of the top 3 Lombard kings and his successors, Ratchis and Aistulf with the pope becoming more of a player and the Franks looming as ever
Wed, February 21, 2018
009 – A crazy confusing conundrum of kings
652-712 From the death of Rothari through a series of kings to the reign of Ansprand in 712 as usual with some Franks and Byzantines thrown in
Wed, February 14, 2018
008 – The Lombards get comfy and some laws
590 - 643 The end of the reign of Agilulf, through Adaloald and Airport through to Rothari and his historical edict
Wed, February 07, 2018
007 – Living with the Lombards
575-589 The Lombards start to settle down and get to know the neighbourhood and the troublesome neighbours as they go through an interregnum of the Dukes before they get back to electing a king and bashing the Byzantines
Wed, January 31, 2018
006 – Here come the Lombards
555-574 A quick look at the brief period of Byzantine rule before the arrival of the Lombards in 568 and then we look at their invasion of Italy and hear a bit of juicy royal gossip
Wed, January 24, 2018
005 – The Gothic War continues
540-554 The war between the Ostrogoths in Italy and the imperial forces of Byzantium continues from 540 and reaches it's end in 552
Wed, January 17, 2018
004 – Queen Amalasuntha and Byztantium gets annoyed
526-540 From the death of Theodoric the great in 526, through the regency of his daughter Amalasuntha, to the end of the first phase of the Gothic war in 540
Wed, January 10, 2018
003 – Theodoric and the rise and fall of the Ostrogoth kingdom
493-526 From 493 when Theodoric the Great took contro of the Italian peninsula to his death in 526
Wed, January 03, 2018
002 – The new Italian kingdom from Odoacer to Theodoric
476-493 The Italian kingdom of Odoacer (476 – 493) and the takeover by the Goths of Theodoric the Great
Wed, January 03, 2018
001 – The end of the end and the beginning of the beginning (408 - 476)
410-476 We go back before the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 to focus on three key events and names: Alaric, Attila and Odoacer. Presented by our partner Explore Worldwide, check out their tours: Exlore Worldwide
Fri, October 06, 2017
000 – Launch
This is our launch episode in which we outline the content and intentions foe the podcast
Sun, October 01, 2017
Trailer
A short presentation of the show
loading...