One of the contemporary world’s best-known ancient historians, Professor Mary Beard, is hitting the road again with a brand-new tour – and Dublin is on the itinerary.
Following a run of sold-out dates in 2025, More Secret Histories of Ancient Rome arrives at the National Concert Hall on Thursday, October 15th, offering audiences a lively and entertaining journey into the stories, mysteries and everyday lives hidden beneath the surface of the ancient world.
Drawing on decades of research, Beard explores how historians piece together the past from archaeological discoveries, written records and some much more unexpected evidence, and expect a few myths to be busted along the way.
One of the highlights of the evening will be a look at Roman graffiti, giving a fascinating glimpse into the voices of ordinary people who rarely made it into the official historical record. And don’t worry if your Latin is a little rusty – Beard promises that these ancient scribbles can be decoded and enjoyed by everyone.
The evening will also delve into ancient mysteries, forgotten stories and at least one rather intriguing murder case, before audiences get the chance to test their own knowledge with an interactive quiz. The night wraps with a live Q&A, where Professor Beard will take questions on everything from Rome’s greatest achievements to its darker chapters.
Professor Mary Beard is Professor Emerita of Classics at the University of Cambridge, Classics editor of the Times Literary Supplement and co-host of the Instant Classics podcast. Her acclaimed books include Pompeii, SPQR, Women & Power and Emperor of Rome.
Mary Beard: More Secret Histories of Ancient Rome takes place at the National Concert Hall, Dublin on Thursday, October 15th 2026. Tickets available via nch.ie
