The History of Byzantium is a captivating podcast. It guides listeners on an epic historic journey. Robin Pierson, a British amateur historian, hosts the show. He got the idea to do the podcast after listening to another podcast by an amateur historian. Mike Duncan hosted The History of Rome podcast. Pierson got inspired by the compelling storytelling on that podcast. He was so inspired, in fact, that he decided to continue that show's theme with this one. He started this podcast in 2012.

Pierson's podcast is a sequel of sorts to Duncan's look at Rome. This is fitting, since Byzantium is a sequel of sorts to the Roman Empire. The area is also called the Eastern Roman Empire or the Byzantine Empire. The History of Byzantium recaps the history of Rome, then starts in 457 AD,, at the end of the Roman Empire. It continues through that empire's fall in 476 AD. Western Europe was falling apart then. But Eastern Rome continued strong for many centuries. The podcast talks about Constantinople, the new empire's capital. It also goes through the leaders, the wars, and everyday life in the region's history. Pierson plans to end the series in 1453. That's when the Ottoman Empire overtook the Byzantine Empire.

The History of Byzantium podcast provides a detailed account of one of history's most fascinating empires. Listeners will get transported back in time with each episode. They learn about the political intrigue and military conquests. They will also hear about cultural achievements that defined the Byzantine era. Emperor Justinian's ambitious building projects get discussed. The show also talks about Basil II's successful campaigns against Bulgaria. Each episode explains the key events and figures who shaped this remarkable period.

Pierson brings his passion for history alive with engaging storytelling techniques. This makes even complex topics accessible to all audiences. His research is meticulous. The host draws upon primary sources such as letters and chronicles written during these times. He also incorporates modern scholarship where appropriate. The History of Byzantium offers great listening and storytelling. New podcast episodes come out on a periodic basis.