Early Christians celebrated Christmas at the same time as the ancient Romans were feasting and partying for their pagan Saturnalia festival.
Many of the pagan habits were therefore absorbed into our Christmas traditions.
Present-giving, holly and even party-hats all have their origins in this 2,000 year old party.
This talk will revel in artwork that is ancient and modern as we un-wrap the images and stories behind our festive season.
Special Offer: Mix and match 4 in-person tickets across our entire talks programme and get the 5th on free. (This is not a loyalty programme - all tickets must be purchased in one transaction.)
Meet the Speaker
After graduating in Latin & Ancient History from Exeter University, Gillian Hovell spent several years working in BBC Television before moving to North Yorkshire where she began to throw herself(often literally) into archaeology and started an award-winning writing and public speaking career.
Professionally known as "The Muddy Archaeologist", she has been involved in various digs since 2003. She led a dig in Yorkshire for nearly ten years and since then has been involved in many internationally important excavations. Her passion for sharing the ancient world has led her to lecture nationally and internationally, as well on tours and cruises around Britain and throughout the Mediterranean. She has also appeared in local and national media.
