Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

Neanderthal DNA, Prehistoric Crayons and Early American Sailors - TAS 318

There’s a lot of Neanderthal research in the news these days and the first two articles highlight some of those achievements. The first article references research about ancient Neanderthals and their migration patterns. Turns out they got around more than we think they did! The second article highlights new research about Neanderthal art and symbology using ochre coloring devices. Finally, we head back to the western hemisphere to learn about 20,000 year old Japanese ancestors possibly being some of the first to cross the ocean and explore the Americas.

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News: Footprints, First Streets, and Prehistoric Pioneers - TAS 317

We kick off this episode with our latest RV adventures before exploring three remarkable archaeological discoveries. First, we discuss newly uncovered ancient human footprints. in Germany. Next, we examine the excavation of one of the world’s oldest streets in central Türkiye, revealing how early communities organized their living spaces nearly 10,000 years ago. Finally, we dive into the surprising story of the Greek island of Naxos, where evidence shows the first settlers weren’t human at all, but Neanderthals and other archaic hominins.

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The Stones are Speaking: Gault Site Documentary - TAS 316

The Gault site is world famous for it’s Clovis and pre-Clovis occupations. It’s also famous for the dedication of the principal archaeologist, Michael Collins. In the new documentary, “The Stones are Speaking”, Writer/Producer/Director Olive Talley tells the story of the Gault site and the story of Michael Collins and his efforts to preserve the site. We also talk to the Director of Photography, Kenneth Garrett. Kenneth is a National Geographic photographer and has known and worked with Michael Collins on other pieces since the beginning of the Gault site’s journey.

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News: Stone Tools, Ancient Taboos, and Shipwreck Secrets - TAS 315

Chris Webster and Rachel Roden check in from the road before diving into a trio of fascinating archaeological discoveries. First, they discuss the surprising find of ancient stone tools in Sulawesi, Indonesia, which could rewrite our understanding of early human history in the region. Next, they explore evidence from a Spanish cave that reveals a Neolithic community may have engaged in both violence and cannibalism against a rival group, offering new insights into prehistoric social conflict. Finally, they examine the recent discovery of four shipwrecks off North Carolina’s coast, including a colonial-era Spanish ship shedding light on centuries-old maritime trade and travel. Tune in for a journey through deep time, ancient taboos, and underwater mysteries!

Chris Webster and Rachel Roden check in from the road before diving into a trio of fascinating archaeological discoveries. First, they discuss the surprising find of ancient stone tools in Sulawesi, Indonesia, which could rewrite our understanding of early human history in the region. Next, they explore evidence from a Spanish cave that reveals a Neolithic community may have engaged in both violence and cannibalism against a rival group, offering new insights into prehistoric social conflict. Finally, they examine the recent discovery of four shipwrecks off North Carolina’s coast, including a colonial-era Spanish ship shedding light on centuries-old maritime trade and travel. Tune in for a journey through deep time, ancient taboos, and underwater mysteries!

TAS 315 Transcript

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Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

It’s the Pie episode! Ep 314

In this special “Strat Chat” edition of The Archaeology Show, we dig into the layers of history behind “pi” and “pie” in honor of episode 314. First, we explore the origins of fruit pies, tracing their journey from ancient Egyptian tombs to medieval feasts and early American kitchens. Next, we unravel the story of the number pi (π), highlighting how ancient civilizations discovered and used this mathematical constant in everything from monuments to pottery. Finally, we bite into the history of meat pies, uncovering their role in ancient diets and how they evolved into a global comfort food. Join us for a flavorful journey through time, where archaeology and culinary history meet in every slice!

In this special “Strat Chat” edition of The Archaeology Show, we dig into the layers of history behind “pi” and “pie” in honor of episode 314. First, we explore the origins of fruit pies, tracing their journey from ancient Egyptian tombs to medieval feasts and early American kitchens. Next, we unravel the story of the number pi (π), highlighting how ancient civilizations discovered and used this mathematical constant in everything from monuments to pottery. Finally, we bite into the history of meat pies, uncovering their role in ancient diets and how they evolved into a global comfort food. Join us for a flavorful journey through time, where archaeology and culinary history meet in every slice!

Links

Segment 1: The History and Origin of Fruit Pies

  1. Pie: A Global History by Janet Clarkson

  2. The Forme of Cury (14th-century English cookbook)

  3. Oxford Companion to Food

  4. British Museum: Archaeology of Ancient Egypt

  5. York Archaeological Trust: Medieval Kitchens

  6. Food in Medieval England by C.M. Woolgar

  7. Smithsonian Magazine: The History of Pie in America

  8. American Pie Council

  9. A History of British Baking by Emma Kay

  10. Museum of London Archaeology

  11. Archaeobotanical Studies at the British Museum

  12. Sugar and Sweetness by Sidney Mintz

Segment 2: The Discovery and Use of the Number Pi (π)

  1. Rhind Mathematical Papyrus – British Museum

  2. Yale Babylonian Collection

  3. Archimedes’ “Measurement of a Circle”

  4. Mathematical Treatise in Nine Sections (Zu Chongzhi)

  5. Aryabhata and Aryabhatiya

  6. A History of Pi by Petr Beckmann

  7. The Symbol π and William Jones

  8. Mathematics in Ancient Egypt by Annette Imhausen

  9. The Archaeology of Measurement by Iain Morley

  10. British Museum: Ancient Coins

  11. Sacred Geometry by Robert Lawlor

  12. Longitude by Dava Sobel

  13. Pi Day – Official Site

  14. Pi in Popular Culture – Life of Pi

  15. Archaeological Discovery of Mathematical Tools

Segment 3: The History and Origin of Meat Pies

  1. Food in Ancient Egypt by Delwen Samuel

  2. Apicius: De Re Coquinaria

  3. The Englishman’s Food by Drummond & Wilbraham

  4. Food in Medieval England by C.M. Woolgar

  5. Sing a Song of Sixpence – Nursery Rhyme Origins

  6. Archaeology at Pompeii – Food Remains

  7. The Cornish Pasty by Gillian Hogg

  8. Pie: A Global History by Janet Clarkson

  9. Archaeozoology at the British Museum

  10. Pie: A Savor the South Cookbook by Sara Foster

  11. Jamaican Patties – History

  12. Tourtière – Canadian Encyclopedia

  13. Empanadas – Origins

  14. Victorian Pie Shops – Museum of London

  15. Meat Pies in Literature – Sweeney Todd

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Tattoos, Shoes, and New UNESCO World Heritage Sites Sites - Ep 313

This week we cover 3 recent archaeology news stories. First up, Near-infrared photography of a 2,300-year-old Pazyryk culture mummy in Siberia has revealed exquisitely detailed tattoos on her forearms and hands. Then, archaeologists excavating the Roman fort of Magna along Hadrian’s Wall in northern England have uncovered an unusually high proportion of oversized leather shoes. And finally, we discuss a few of the newest additions to the UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.

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The Bucket List - TAS 312

In this special episode of The Archaeology Show, we’re mapping out our ultimate bucket list of archaeological and historical sites that we have not yet visited. We’ll recap some of the amazing places we have been lucky enough to experience, and then we will each share our top 10 with the other. We are not discussing this ahead of time, so will there be crossover? Tune in to see!

From the towering pyramids of Giza to the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde, we highlight destinations rich in history, mystery, and cultural significance. Whether you’re planning your next trip or dreaming from your couch, join us as we explore the world’s most fascinating ruins and the stories that make them unforgettable.

Chris’s List

  1. The Pyramids of Giza (Egypt)**

  2. Petra (Jordan)**

  3. Great Wall of China

  4. Terra Cotta Army (China)*

  5. Göbekli Tepe (Turkey)**

  6. Machu Picchu (Peru)

  7. Nazca Lines (Peru)*

  8. Rapa Nui (Chile)

  9. Angkor Wat (Cambodia)

  10. Mesa Verde (Colorado)*

Rachel’s List

  1. The Pyramids of Giza (Egypt)**

  2. Petra (Jordan)**

  3. The Colosseum (Rome, Italy)

  4. Teotihuacan (Mexico)

  5. Göbekli Tepe (Turkey)**

  6. Terra cotta Army (China)*

  7. Notre Dame (Paris, France)

  8. Mesa Verde (Colorado, USA)*

  9. Nazca Lines (Peru)*

  10. Hagia Sophia (Istanbul, Turkey)

** Same site in the same position on our lists

** Same site, different position on our lists.

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Lost City or Lost Cause? Diving Into the Latest Atlantis Claims - TAS 311

In this episode of The Archaeology Show, we kick things off with a look at the recent discovery of a treasure-filled tomb belonging to the first known ruler of a Maya city in Belize, shedding light on ancient Maya leadership and ritual. In segments two and three, we dive into the latest headline-grabbing claim that Atlantis has been found off the coast of Spain. We break down what was actually discovered, examine the credentials of the lead researcher, and explore why the scientific community remains highly skeptical. Join us for a smart, approachable discussion that separates archaeological fact from fiction.

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Strat Chat Premier: Layers of Yukon History - TAS 310

Welcome to the debut episode of “Strat Chat,” where we dig deep—one place, many stories, across time. This week, we peel back the layers of the Yukon. In Segment 1, journey back to the Ice Age and discover how glaciers shaped the land and set the stage for the region’s future. Segment 2 explores the lives and cultures of the Indigenous peoples who called the Yukon home long before European arrival, highlighting their resilience and connection to the land. Finally, Segment 3 rushes into the late 19th century as we relive the excitement, chaos, and legacy of the Klondike Gold Rush. Join us as we unearth the stories that make the Yukon a truly remarkable place, one stratum at a time.

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Ancient Smoked Meat, King Bluetooth and an Odysseus Cult - TAS 309

This week we discuss 3 new archaeology news stories. First, we explore why early humans may have used fire for reasons other than cooking. Then, we look at Viking graves that are connected to the legendary King Bluetooth. Finally, new research reveals a possible lost cult site dedicated to Odysseus. Join us as we break down the science, sift through the myths, and question long-held assumptions challenged by new research!

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Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre - TAS 308

We discuss our recent visit to the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre in Whitehorse, Yukon. We loved learning about the large mammals and humans that used Beringia to travel between Northern North America and Siberia before it disappeared around 10,000 years ago.

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New Research Using Ancient DNA - TAS 307

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Timelines: Easter Island, Mississippian Culture, and Great Zimbabwe - TAS 306

This week, Timelines returns to The Archaeology Show! We have always been fascinated by the Moai heads found on the island of Rapa Nui, so we used them to anchor this episode to 1100-1600 BCE. At the same time, the Mississippian culture in North America was building giant mounds and the Great Zimbabwe in Africa were building remarkable stone structures. In this episode we discuss these 3 distinct cultures that thrived during the same time period, in very different places.

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Rock Art, Ancient Figurines, and Geoglyphs! - TAS 305

Join us for your weekly dive into the latest archaeological discoveries! This week, we explore how ancient South African rock art is offering new insights into early human cognition and symbolism. Then, we'll journey to Turkey to examine a recently unearthed Mesolithic/Neolithic stone figurine and discuss what it reveals about the shift to settled agriculture. Finally, we'll explore how cutting-edge AI technology is helping to solve some of archaeology's greatest puzzles, including the mysteries of the Nazca Lines.

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Segment 1

Segment 2

Segment 3

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We take a BATH, well we visit one - Ep 304

On this week’s episode we explore the Roman Baths at Bath, UK! In our first segment, we delve into the history of the iconic Roman Baths, a marvel of engineering and a social hub in antiquity. Next, we share impressions from our recent site tour and museum visit and share our pro-tips and experiences at the site. Finally, we read some funny 1-star reviews of the Roman Baths. Tune in for a blend of history, personal anecdotes, and laughter about visitor experiences in this remarkable city!

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Ancient Hunters, Lost Gates, and Mammoth Masterpieces! - TAS 303

This week on The Archaeology Show, we explore an ancient hunting toolkit from West Texas, revealing ingenious technology. Then, we journey to Peru's mysterious "Gate of the Gods" and ponder its lost civilization connections. Finally, we uncover stunning Paleolithic mammoth ivory artifacts from Ukraine, showcasing ancient artistry. Tune in for a global adventure into our fascinating past!

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We visit Stonehenge...Inside the Circle! - TAS 302

Join us as we explore the iconic Stonehenge! We delve into its history and significance, share our personal experience visiting the site, and round things off with some funny negative reviews and a look at future research. It’s a mix of history, adventure, and laughs you won’t want to miss!

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Sutton Hoo's Secrets, Obsidian Trails, and Giza's Underground? - TAS 301

This week: Could a new find solve the mystery of the Sutton Hoo helmet? We explore the surprising journeys of ancient obsidian tools across Canada. Plus, a mind-blowing claim: a huge underground city beneath the Giza pyramids? Join us for the latest digs and discoveries from around the world!

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We Visit the British Museum! - TAS 300

From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles, we tried to see as much as we could during out visit to the British Museum. We talk about how to get in, how to avoid school children, and what some of our favorite things were that we saw.

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First Ancient Egyptian Tomb Discovered Since King Tut?! - TAS 299

This week we jump back into some big news stories that have come out this past month. First, we look at the recent discovery of the first ancient Egyptian tomb since King Tut in 1922. Then we head over to China where new evidence pushes back the oldest date of the Great Wall of China. And finally, frescoes in Pompeii show evidence of a cult in Ancient Rome.

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