Ep 3. Lost City of the Kalahari

In season 2 episode 3 of What on Earth?, the focus is on the search for the Lost City of the Kalahari. The Kalahari Desert covers much of Botswana and parts of Namibia and South Africa, and its harsh and vast terrain has long been a source of fascination and mystery.

The episode begins with a map that shows the extent of the Kalahari and highlights the area where the lost city is believed to be located. From there, we are taken on a journey with experts and explorers as they investigate various sites in search of clues to the city's whereabouts.

The first stop is a remote and isolated area in the Kalahari where a grid-like pattern of large stone circles has been discovered. Some have suggested that these formations may indicate an ancient settlement or even a city, but it's difficult to say for sure. The team uses satellite imagery and ground-level photography to examine the circles and try to determine their origin and purpose.

Next, we are introduced to a man named Bob Brooker, who has spent decades searching for the lost city. He has identified a specific area that he believes is the most likely location, and he takes the team on a journey through the desert to get there. Along the way, he points out various landmarks and highlights the challenges of navigating through such a vast and unforgiving landscape.

Once they arrive at the designated site, the team uses a variety of tools and techniques to search for evidence of human habitation. This includes excavating potential sites, analyzing soil samples, and using ground-penetrating radar to look for hidden structures or artifacts. As they work, the team discusses the various theories about the lost city and whether it could have been built by a civilization that predates the current known history of the area.

Throughout the episode, the team is also shown conducting interviews with experts in archaeology, history, and geology to get their perspectives on the various discoveries and theories. They discuss the challenges of studying ancient settlements in such a harsh and remote environment, as well as the importance of using a variety of tools and techniques to piece together the puzzle.

Ultimately, while the team uncovers some fascinating evidence and makes some intriguing discoveries, the search for the lost city remains ongoing. As the episode concludes, they acknowledge the vastness of the Kalahari and the many mysteries that still remain hidden within its borders. Whether the lost city will ever be found remains to be seen, but the journey to uncover its secrets is a fascinating one that will continue to captivate scholars and explorers for years to come.