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Hidden Histories: Richard Francis Burton

Today marks the birthday of Richard Francis Burton. Though he did share some characteristics with his more famous hard-living namesake, Burton was a famed British explorer with strong links to Ireland, and one who lived one of the most peculiar lives of the nineteenth century. It included sneaking into Mecca in disguise - at a time when non-Muslims were banned from entering - and penning the first English language translation of the Kama Sutra. A controversial explorer, he rests in what might be Britain’s strangest grave. Gavan is joined by Donal Fallon for another episode of Hidden Histories to discuss.

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13.10 19 Mar 2023


Hidden Histories: Richard Francis Burton



Share this article

13.10 19 Mar 2023


Today marks the birthday of Richard Francis Burton.

Though he did share some characteristics with his more famous hard-living namesake, Burton was a famed British explorer with strong links to Ireland, and one who lived one of the most peculiar lives of the nineteenth century.

It included sneaking into Mecca in disguise - at a time when non-Muslims were banned from entering - and penning the first English language translation of the Kama Sutra.

A controversial explorer, he rests in what might be Britain’s strangest grave.

Gavan is joined by Donal Fallon for another episode of Hidden Histories to discuss.


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