The Past Macabre

Join Egyptologist Stephanie Rice as she delves into topics such as the elaborate tombs built to immortalize the dead, ancient guardians of the afterlife, and the tales of heroes who defied and often triumphed over deities of death. The Past Macabre explores the diverse ways in which cultures throughout history have sought to understand, confront, and transcend death.

Tombs of the Tomb Builders Part 2: Deir el-Medina - Ep 32
Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

Tombs of the Tomb Builders Part 2: Deir el-Medina - Ep 32

In this episode, step inside Deir el-Medina, the remarkably well-preserved village of the artisans who built the royal tombs of ancient Egypt. Known in antiquity as Pa Demi or “the village”, this desert settlement near Thebes (modern Luxor) was home to the skilled workers of the Set Maat, the “Place of Truth,” where pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Ramesses II, Nefertari, and Hatshepsut were laid to rest.

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The Archaeology of the Real Scorpion Kings - TPM 30
Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

The Archaeology of the Real Scorpion Kings - TPM 30

In this episode, host Stephanie Rice shares information about the origins of Ancient Egyptian kingship during the Predynastic period.

Discover the real archaeological evidence of two different rulers known as King Scorpion that inspired the Scorpion King from The Mummy franchise. But unlike the cinematic portrayal, the real kings didn't amass and sustain their power through military conquest.

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Welcome to The Past Macabre! Where we dive into humanity’s enduring obsession with death—and what lies beyond it!