From the death cults of Egypt to the fearsome yet sophisticated society of the Vikings, the ancient world was a surprising and challenging place.
Explore the in-depth sections below.
Egyptians
The culture of ancient Egypt spanned 5,000 years, but it remains an intriguing mystery.
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British Prehistory
Who were the ancient Britons and did the people known as Celts ever really exist?
Vikings
Not just pirates and warriors but also traders and colonists, the Vikings left their mark on Britain.
Ancient India
The Indus Valley nurtured the subcontinent's enduring and sophisticated cultures.
Greeks
The vibrant societies of ancient Greece have had a profound impact on the modern world.
Romans
The ingenious yet brutal Roman Empire laid the foundations for much of the Europe of today.
Anglo-Saxons
They ruled England for 600 years, forming the basis of its culture, language and borders.
Other Cultures
The ancient world played host to a rich array of fascinating cultures.