Zenobia [audio 8min]

Zenobia was a 3rd-century warrior queen. She claimed to be a descendant of Cleopatra and, like Boudicca, led her people in a war against Rome. After the death of her husband, Zenobia became regent for her young son, ruling the city of Palmyra, which stood at a strategic point on trade routes between east and west. During her reign, she expanded her domain to encompass Egypt and most of Syria. Renowned for her intellectual ability and physical exploits, she was also a passionate mother. So, what is her legacy? Host Jenni Murray is joined by archaeologist and novelist Judith Weingarten, author of The Chronicle of Zenobia: The Rebel Queen (Pegasus), and Edith Hall, Professor of Greek Cultural History at Durham University.