The Mystery of Prester John

In 1145, a Syrian bishop brought news of a distant Christian priest-king whose victories promised hope for the crusader states. Within a generation, a letter circulating under Prester John's name described an empire of extraordinary wealth and impossible wonders. But where was his kingdom? This episode follows the legend through reports of Mongol conquest, William of Rubruck's enquiries and Marco Polo's account, before tracing its growing association with Ethiopia. Discover how travellers and diplomats encountered the realities behind European expectations, and what the surviving evidence suggests about the origins of a ruler who influenced history without ever being securely identified. Visit our website: Compact Mysteries Find us on our social media sites: Facebook Instagram Pinterest Youtube #CompactMysteries #CompactHistories #PresterJohn #MedievalHistory #HistoricalMysteries #EthiopianHistory #HistoryPodcast