Ancient Apocalypse Season 1 Episode 4 Ghosts of a Drowned World

As the fourth episode of the first season of Ancient Apocalypse, Ghosts of a Drowned World presents an in-depth exploration of the potential connection between ancient civilizations and natural disasters. The episode takes viewers to the sunken city of Thonis-Heracleion, located off the coast of Alexandria, Egypt. Here, archaeologists have gradually uncovered the remains of a once-great city that was lost beneath the waters of the Mediterranean around 1,500 years ago.

Through a series of interviews with experts in the fields of archaeology, history, and geology, Ancient Apocalypse: Ghosts of a Drowned World offers a compelling and informative look at the factors that led to the downfall of Thonis-Heracleion. The team explores the possibility that a powerful earthquake, combined with the rising sea level, caused the city to sink into the sea. They examine evidence that waterlogged remains of buildings, statues and artefacts become damaged from exposure to saltwater.

As the excavation at Thonis-Heracleion continues, the Ancient Apocalypse team learns more about the city and the people who lived there. They visit the city's central temple, which is dedicated to the god Amun-Gereb. Here, they see the remains of impressive statues, including one of the god and another of the city's pharaoh, Nectanebo I. They also find evidence of a disaster that struck the temple, likely an earthquake, and discover how the priests who lived there attempted to fix and repair the temple.

The episode also examines the trade networks that Thonis-Heracleion was part of during its heyday. The team discovers anchors, tool marks on the buildings and ceramics painted with ancient Greek letters. They hypothesise that these artefacts were used to transport cargo around the Mediterranean. The Ancient Apocalypse team also explores local legends and historical accounts of the city, which reveal that Thonis-Heracleion was a wealthy and powerful city, engaged in trade and political alliances with Egypt.

Throughout the episode, the Ancient Apocalypse team pieces together a fascinating narrative of Thonis-Heracleion, from its rise to power to its sudden and tragic downfall beneath the waves. They also consider what lessons this ancient city may hold for modern-day societies, raising questions about the risks posed by natural disasters and the importance of preparation, infrastructure and backup systems.

With its compelling blend of history and science, Ancient Apocalypse: Ghosts of a Drowned World offers a haunting and fascinating glimpse into the mysteries of ancient civilizations and the forces of nature that shaped their destinies.