Watch Global Treasures: Bagan

Global Treasures: Bagan is a visually stunning 50-minute documentary that takes the viewer on a virtual tour of the ancient city of Bagan. Bagan is located in Myanmar and holds over 2,000 religious monuments, including temples, pagodas, and monasteries that were built between the 11th and 13th centuries. The documentary opens with a breathtaking aerial shot of the city at sunrise. We see the sprawling plain, which is dotted with the iconic brick stupas, all glinting in the morning sun. The camera then takes us on a tour of the different temples, pagodas, and other religious monuments that make up the city.

The documentary is narrated by two presenters, who have excellent knowledge of the history and culture of Bagan. The presenters are articulate and passionate about their subject, which makes the tour even more engaging. Their voices can also be quite soothing, and as they describe the history of each temple, one can almost feel transported back in time.

The temples are awe-inspiring architectural feats of ancient engineering. The camera takes us inside the temples, where we see the beautiful murals and frescoes adorning the walls. It's almost as if the walls are alive, telling stories of Buddha's life and teachings. The temples also house intricate carvings and sculptures, which demonstrate the incredible artistic skill of the ancient artisans who built them.

The documentary highlights several of the most notable temples in the city, including Shwezigon Pagoda, Thatbyinnyu Temple, and Ananda Temple. Shwezigon Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Bagan and was built to enshrine some of Gautama Buddha's bones. Thatbyinnyu Temple is the tallest temple in Bagan, standing at over 60 meters high, while Ananda Temple is considered one of the most beautiful in the city.

One of the most spectacular scenes in the film is when we witness a hot air balloon ride over the city of Bagan. This is an unforgettable experience, seeing the city from above, with its thousands of pagodas peaking out over the trees. We see the golden sun blazing down on the golden architecture, and it feels like magic.

The documentary also focuses on the daily life of the people of Bagan. The presenters take us to local markets, where we see the vibrant colours of fresh produce, clothing and textiles. We see local families and young monks going about their daily lives, offering us an insight into the traditions and values of the people who have made Bagan their home for generations.

In conclusion, Global Treasures: Bagan is an awe-inspiring documentary that takes the viewer on a breathtaking journey through one of the world's most incredible cities. The film's striking visuals, and insightful narration make it an entertaining and educational watch. It is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or culture, and a must-see for anyone seeking an escape into a world of wonder and beauty.