Watch Ancient Treasures with Bettany Hughes

Ancient Treasures with Bettany Hughes is a documentary series on BBC Select that explores some of the most awe-inspiring archaeological finds from across the globe. The show is hosted by Bettany Hughes, an award-winning historian and classicist who takes viewers on a journey through time, uncovering the secrets of the world's greatest civilizations through their objects.

The series comprises of six episodes, each of which focuses on a different civilization and their treasures. The first episode is set in ancient Greece, where Bettany visits the Acropolis in Athens, revealing the stories behind the Parthenon sculptures and the legendary city of Troy. In the following episodes, she travels to Egypt, where she explores the Great Pyramids of Giza and the treasures of Tutankhamun, and to Rome, where she walks among the ruins of the Colosseum and the Forum, uncovering the legacy of the Roman Empire.

As she travels the world, Bettany brings to life the stories of the people who made these treasures and the societies they belonged to. She reveals how civilizations rise and fall, and how the objects they leave behind offer us a glimpse into their cultures, beliefs, and values. Through her engaging narrative and expert commentary, Bettany takes viewers behind the scenes of some of the most incredible archaeological finds in history.

One of the hallmarks of Ancient Treasures with Bettany Hughes is its stunning visual quality. The show features breathtaking cinematography that captures the majesty and beauty of the ancient world, from the towering pyramids of Egypt to the intricate carvings of the Greek temples. The series also uses state-of-the-art technology to create immersive experiences, such as virtual tours that allow viewers to explore ancient sites and artifacts up close.

Another highlight of the series is its focus on lesser-known treasures that are often overlooked in popular culture. For example, in the episode on India, Bettany uncovers the hidden treasures of the Mughal Empire, including the Taj Mahal and other stunning monuments that showcase the fusion of Islamic and Hindu cultures. Similarly, in the episode on China, she delves into the terra cotta army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, a stunning collection of life-sized clay soldiers that were buried with the emperor to protect him in the afterlife.

Throughout the series, Bettany also looks at the wider context of world history, drawing connections between civilizations and highlighting their influence on each other. She shows how trade, migration, and cultural exchange shaped human history, and how the treasures we discover today continue to shape our understanding of the past.

Overall, Ancient Treasures with Bettany Hughes is a captivating and informative series that brings the ancient world to life. Whether you're a history buff or simply interested in learning more about the cultures that shaped our world, this series is a must-see. With its engaging storytelling, stunning visuals, and expert analysis, it offers a unique perspective on some of the most fascinating objects and civilizations in human history.

Ancient Treasures with Bettany Hughes is a series that ran for 4 seasons (18 episodes) between August 27, 2021 and on BBC Select