Ancient Invisible Cities Season 1 Episode 3 Istanbul

Ancient Invisible Cities is a fascinating documentary series which unravels the secrets of some of the world's most ancient cities through the use of modern technology. Each episode explores one city at a time and takes viewers on a journey through time, using 3D scans, animations, and historical analysis to reveal the hidden secrets of these magnificent cities.

In season 1 episode 3, the focus is on Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents and has been the capital of three great empires - Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Istanbul is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that spans over 2,500 years.

As with the previous episodes, the team behind the documentary employs cutting-edge technology to reveal the city’s secrets. They use LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology, which is essentially a laser scanner that uses light waves to create incredibly accurate 3D models. The technology enables the team to create a highly detailed map of the city's architecture and uncover the hidden constructions beneath the surface.

The episode begins with a stunning aerial view of Istanbul, before delving into the city's past. Viewers are taken on a journey back in time to the Byzantine era, where we witness the construction of the great Hagia Sophia, one of the most magnificent buildings in the world. Initially built as a church, it was later converted into a mosque, and finally into a museum.

We then travel through time to see the impressive architecture of the Ottoman empire, including the stunning Topkapi Palace, the sprawling Ottoman palace that became the center of the empire’s administration. Here, we are given a glimpse into the life of the Ottoman rulers and the strict protocols that governed every aspect of their lives.

As the episode progresses, we get a sense of how the city of Istanbul evolved and how different cultures and religions have left their mark on the city. We learn about the underground cisterns, which provided a vital source of water for the city in ancient times, and the Hippodrome, which was once the site of chariot races and other public events.

The LiDAR technology is put to great use in this episode, as it reveals some striking discoveries that have remained hidden for centuries. For example, the team uncovers the remains of a Roman theater, which was built in the 2nd century AD. The discovery is made possible by the LiDAR technology, which can detect subtle variations in terrain that suggest man-made structures beneath the surface. This discovery provides a glimpse into the ancient Roman world and how the city of Istanbul has changed over the centuries.

The episode ends with a look at the present day Istanbul, a bustling modern city that still bears the scars of its ancient past. The team reflects on how the city's rich history has shaped it today and how it continues to inspire people from all over the world.

Overall, season 1 episode 3 of Ancient Invisible Cities offers a mesmerizing look at the history of Istanbul and the many different civilizations that have called it home. With its stunning visuals and cutting-edge technology, the episode presents a fascinating journey through time that will leave viewers in awe of this remarkable city.