Foundation of Rome Podcast

What is the podcast all about?

This series explores the history of Rome from its legendary beginnings to its enduring influence on modern culture. Each concise episode highlights a pivotal moment, theme, or transformation in the city’s long story: from Romulus and Remus and the early Republic, through Hannibal’s challenge and Caesar’s rise, to Augustus’s new order, Nero’s burning Rome, and the splendour of papal and Baroque eras. Later episodes trace Rome into the age of the Grand Tour, the upheavals of revolution and unification, and Mussolini’s attempt to reshape the city in fascist marble. The series concludes by reflecting on Rome as a palimpsest of memory, faith, and power—a city that raises questions rather than offering simple answers. Narrated by Darius von Guttner, historian, campus dean, and lecturer at Australian Catholic University.

Who is the target audience?

The podcast is primarily designed for ACU students enrolled in units on Roman history, as the episodes complement and enrich course content. It is also accessible to the wider public interested in the history and culture of ancient Rome. Written by Darius von Guttner, Canberra Campus Dean and historian, the series also supports the promotion of ACU’s Rome Campus as a place where students can engage directly with the city’s history. The podcasts target both ACU students and external audiences, including students from other universities who may enrol in ACU’s Rome-based units.

How many episodes are there?

The series consists of 19 planned episodes, released weekly where possible. It is hosted on Podbean and available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The podcast URL is https://foundationsofrome.podbean.com/