The Parthians

The Ancients

The Parthians were heavyweights of ancient Mesopotamia. Hailing from what is now modern day Iran, they charged onto the scene by destroying the Seleucid Empire and became one of Rome’s most formidable enemies. They are perhaps most famous for capturing Crassus - Rome’s spider-like tycoon - at the Battle of Carrhae, and pouring gold down his throat. But what else do we know about them?

In today’s episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Adrian Goldsworthy to explore who the Parthians really were, to delve into what the sources can tell us about them, and to discover how these horse-warriors managed to forge a superpower-like empire that stretched from the northern reaches of the Euphrates to the Hindu Kush.

This episode was produced by Joseph Knight and edited by Max Carrey.

Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Get a subscription for £1 per month for 3 months with code ANCIENTS - sign up here.

Vote for The Ancients in the Listeners Choice category of British Podcast Awards here.

You can take part in our listener survey here.