Ep 5. Rome

Brian Sewell's Grand Tour of Italy is a travel documentary series that explores the landscapes, art, architecture, and history of Italy. In season 1 episode 5, the focus is on Rome, the eternal city.

The episode begins with Brian Sewell arriving in Rome and admiring the beauty of the city. He starts his tour at the Pantheon, a temple dedicated to all the gods of ancient Rome. Sewell marvels at the engineering and design of the building, especially its massive dome. He explains how the Pantheon is one of the few ancient Roman buildings that has survived intact, and how it has influenced the architecture of many other buildings across the world.

Sewell then takes a stroll through the picturesque streets of Rome, admiring the beautiful fountains and sculptures that adorn them. He visits the Trevi Fountain, a baroque masterpiece that is believed to bring good luck to those who throw coins into its waters. Sewell explains how the fountain was designed to celebrate the discovery of an ancient aqueduct that supplied water to ancient Rome.

Next, Sewell visits the Colosseum, the famous amphitheater that was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles in ancient Rome. Sewell explains the history of the building and the brutalities that took place within its walls. He also talks about the technological innovations that made it possible to stage such massive events in ancient times.

Sewell then takes a trip to the Vatican, the headquarters of the Catholic Church and home to some of the world's most famous art. He visits the Sistine Chapel, where he admires the ceiling frescoes painted by Michelangelo. Sewell explains the narrative of the frescoes and the symbolism behind their creation. He also talks about Michelangelo's genius as an artist and the challenges he faced in completing the paintings.

Sewell then takes a walk through the Vatican museums, where he admires the many priceless treasures that have been collected over the centuries. He views the work of Renaissance artists such as Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio, and explains the significance of their art. Sewell also visits the Gallery of Maps, a 120-meter long corridor adorned with colorful frescoes depicting the Italian regions and their cities.

Finally, Sewell ends his tour at St. Peter's Basilica, one of the holiest shrines in Christendom. He admires the grandeur of the building and explains the history of its construction. Sewell also views the many chapels and altars within the basilica, each adorned with beautiful art and statues.

Overall, Brian Sewell's tour of Rome provides a rich and informative look at the city's history, art, and architecture. His deep knowledge of the subject matter and his eloquent prose make the episode a joy to watch for anyone interested in the city's cultural heritage.