Ancient polity that governed vast stretches of Europe, North Africa, and the Near East after the Roman Republic.
UNESCO has placed Sebastia in the West Bank and five Mount Amel castles in southern Lebanon on the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger, citing ongoing conflicts. Israel opposes the move, calling it politicisation, while Palestinian and Lebanese officials celebrate protections amid tensions.
A Thought for the Day segment on BBC Radio 4 has fueled a clash over Christianity in China, after Catherine Pepinster’s remarks about religious freedom were challenged by broadcaster Ruth Roberts. The discussion touched on the history of Christianity, its global reach, and tensions with the Chinese state.
Divers have uncovered a 2,000-year-old shipwreck near Mazara del Vallo, packed with hundreds of wine and oil amphorae. Italy’s culture ministry says the vessel dates to the 1st or 2nd century BC and will be documented and protected as researchers study its cargo and origins.
The Great Mosaic and the Painted City have been restored and unveiled in the Baths of Trajan, Oppio hill, near the Colosseum. Access starts with weekend trials for groups of 15 as authorities monitor humidity and climate impact before wider public entry.
A study traces Scotland’s cultural and social shifts from the mid-1960s to the 1966 general election, highlighting changes in family planning, rebirth of media, housing redevelopment in Glasgow, and youth culture shaped by The Beatles and Dylan.
Archaeologists have uncovered a well-preserved ritual bath complex from the early first century CE near the Temple Mount, offering new details on pilgrimage practices during the Second Temple period. The find includes a hydraulic drainage system and multiple mikvaot, with researchers highlighting its role in serving thousands of pilgrims during major festivals.
A hoard of 934 Roman silver denarii, weighing 3.1 kg, has been unearthed near Wesseling, south of Cologne. Authorities say the find is the largest coin treasure from Hadrian’s era in Germany. The coins were buried in the second quarter of the 2nd century AD; the owner’s fate remains unknown. The collection is on display at Bonns LVR-LandesMuseum.
A 22-year-old rope-access technician has died during an illumination project at Rome’s Colosseum. The second level is closed as authorities investigate and mourn the tragedy, with the park promising transparency as workers and unions seek answers.