Ancient Megacities
At the heart of desert landscapes, once stood three giants, three builders’ masterpieces, three symbols of all powerful civilizations: Carthage, Troy and Persepolis. Their remains testify to their titanic proportions, unique designs and unprecedented constructions. But how did the Carthaginians come to create a cutting-edge hydraulic system? How did Trojans architects construct a city known to be indestructible? How did Darius I, “king of kings”, made built one of the largest palatial complexes ever? This series aims to solve the many secrets of these architectural tour-de-force. Through experts’ insights, 3D modeling and the use of ultramodern techniques (magnetic resonance, satellite scans, photogrammetry…), Ancient Megacities scrupulously explores the sites where once stood these architectural jewels, retraces step by step their construction process and tries to decipher the remaining mysteries about their disappearance.
Episodes
Runtime: 52m
In the 9th century BC, Phoenicians built Carthage, a grand city at Mediterranean trade crossroads, set to be their empire's capital. After the Third Punic War, Carthage fell to Rome. Hadrian's task: ensure year-round water supply. Today, Byrsa hill showcases intertwined Punic and Roman relics, symbolizing Carthage's enduring legacy linking two civilizations.
Runtime: 52m
Explore the transformation of a humble village into a formidable ancient city atop Turkey's Hissarlik hill. Despite being rebuilt nine times after fires and earthquakes, Troy remains a masterpiece of defensive architecture. Archaeologists continue to uncover its secrets, inspired by the epic tale of the Iliad. Yet, the mystery persists: how did the Mycenaeans penetrate Troy's impregnable defenses?
Runtime: 52m
Persepolis, once envisioned as the Middle East's Garden of Eden, epitomizes opulence and empire. Through centuries and archaeological finds, its mysteries unravel. Explore how this marvel emerged, its true role unveiled by recent discoveries. Witness the tragic destruction of centuries of architectural brilliance in mere hours. Persepolis unveils its astounding secrets in this captivating journey.
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