In this episode, I interview Professor Giulio Magli, a leading astrophysicist and archaeoastronomer who heads the Department of Mathematics at the Polytechnic University of Milan. Magli, a prominent figure in Italy’s archaeoastronomy community, combines his expertise in astrophysics and ancient architecture to explore how ancient societies integrated celestial phenomena into their built environments. This discussion uncovers the intricate blend of religious, mythological, and practical factors that shaped these remarkable structures, revealing the sophisticated ways ancient peoples wove astronomy into their daily lives [1].
Figure 01: Episode Title Graphic.
Magli’s journey into the intersection of mathematics, architecture, and celestial observations began with his background in relativistic astrophysics. Over the past 25 years, he has applied mathematical principles to understand the alignments and orientations of ancient monuments and landscapes. His research has unveiled profound connections between the cosmos and the built environment, revealing how ancient societies intertwined their architectural achievements with their religious and mythological beliefs.