An overview of the impressive Roman amphitheatre of El Jem in Tunisia, North Africa, which I visited in 2007.

In January 1768, an Englishman named Philip Astley staged the first modern circus in London. The use of trick riders, acrobats, clowns, trained animals and other familiar components or acts of the circus have existed in various forms throughout history. It was not until the late 18th century that the modern spectacle of the circus was really born.

British archaeologists are at it again! Another remarkable excavation is underway close to the Fiumicino Airport in Italy. The site which has been excavated to a degree over the years is now receiving the undivided attention of experts from the Universities of Southampton and Cambridge who are working alongside their pals from Italy.