Sunken Worlds Online: Rediscovering Ancient Ruined Cities
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Sunken Worlds: A Fascinating Journey Through the Ruined Cities of Antiquity
What do destroyed cities tell us about the people who lived in them? The free online lecture Sunken Worlds - Ruined Cities in Antiquity from Troy to Pompeii takes the audience on a historical quest through the Mediterranean and the Ancient Orient on October 25, 2026.
Prof. Dr. Martin Zimmermann shows how the people of antiquity viewed significant sites such as Troy, Mycenae, Nineveh, and Pompeii. A differentiated event experience emerges between urban history, archaeology, and cultural history. Today’s romantic fascination with ancient ruins contrasts with a more pragmatic view of the societies of that time.
Ruins Between Memory and Everyday Life
Millions of people today visit ancient ruined cities and admire their monuments, streets, and walls. The lecture opens the view for a different perspective: In ancient times, destroyed cities were often not seen as picturesque testimonies of past grandeur but as practical challenges. Ruins were removed, resettled, or ignored.
From Troy to Pompeii
Troy, Mycenae, Nineveh, and Pompeii stand for different forms of downfall and memory. Martin Zimmermann contextualizes these places within their historical contexts and makes visible how perceptions of loss, power, and the past changed over the centuries. His expertise combines scientific accuracy with a vivid representation of ancient life worlds.
Scientific Context with Prof. Dr. Martin Zimmermann
The speaker is the chairholder for Ancient History at Ludwig Maximilians University Munich. His research focuses on the Hellenistic polis, ancient urban societies, and the history of Asia Minor. Martin Zimmermann is also a member of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and the German Archaeological Institute.
Online Lecture of the Series vhs.wissen-live
The event will be held online as part of the series vhs.wissen-live in cooperation with the Gerda Henkel Foundation. It begins on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 7:30 PM; the end is scheduled for around 9:00 PM. Participation requires an internet-capable device with speakers or headphones. The access data for Zoom will be sent via email after registration.
Conclusion: Seeing Ancient Cities Anew
This lecture connects historical research, archaeological questions, and impressive city stories into a unique digital event experience. Those who want to understand how ancient societies dealt with destruction, memory, and abandoned places will experience an enlightening evening with vivid insights into Troy, Mycenae, Nineveh, and Pompeii. Secure your free participation and discover the sunken worlds of antiquity live in online format.
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