Skip to main content

The imaginary king who changed the real world - Matteo Salvadore

1,375,375 Views

10,016 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

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.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Matteo Salvadore
  • Director Anna Nowakowska
  • Narrator Addison Anderson
  • Producer The Animation Workshop, Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Associate Editorial Producer Dan Kwartler
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Fact-Checker Eden Girma

More from The World's People and Places