Matteo Salvadore: The imaginary king who changed the real world

The imaginary king who changed the real world

In 1165, copies of a strange letter began to circulate throughout Europe. It spoke of a fantastical realm, containing the Tower of Babel and the Fountain of Youth— all ruled over by the letter's mysterious author: Prester John. Who was this powerful ruler, and was he even real? Matteo Salvadore shares the legend of a mythical king who impacted the decisions of European leaders for 400 years. [Directed by Anna Nowakowska, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Cam Misirlioglu / WORKPLAYWORK].

For over 400 years, the legend of Prester John, a fictional Christian king ruling a magical kingdom, guided European leaders’ ambitions and alliances. A forged letter describing his fantastical realm, complete with the Tower of Babel and the Fountain of Youth, fueled the Crusades, inspired exploration, and sparked improbable diplomatic missions. European powers scoured Asia and Africa for his domain, eventually mistaking Ethiopia for his kingdom. The myth’s influence was so strong it helped drive both military campaigns and a civil war, despite the king’s total invention.