Watch Cathedrals of Culture

  • 1969
  • 1 Season

Cathedrals of Culture is a unique documentary series that takes us on a mesmerizing journey through some of the world's most iconic architectural achievements. The show consists of six episodes, each exploring one of six different buildings that have shaped our culture and communities.

Throughout the series, we get an intimate view of the buildings' secrets, its history, and its influence on the people who inhabit or visit it. From the modern-day structures to the old-world ones, Cathedrals of Culture explores how these buildings reflect our humanity, our ethos, and our struggles.

The series is directed by six distinctive filmmakers who bring in their unique vision to each episode. Wim Wenders, the German director of Paris, Texas, and Wings of Desire, directs the episode on the Berlin Philharmonic. Robert Redford, the American actor, and filmmaker, directs the episode on the Salk Institute. Michael Glawogger, director of Workingman's Death, directs the episode on the National Library of Russia. Margreth Olin, Norwegian documentary filmmaker, directs the episode on the Norwegian Opera and Ballet House. Karim Ainouz, Brazilian filmmaker, and artist, directs the episode on the Centre Pompidou. And finally, Francesco Carrozzini, Italian filmmaker and photographer, directs the episode on the Vatican.

Each director adds their personal touch to the episode they direct, elevating the experience significantly. The show is also narrated by some of the most prominent actors of our times, lending their voice to the buildings that tell their stories.

The Berlin Philharmonic episode takes us on a journey through the history of one of the most remarkable concert halls in the world. We get to see how the architecture of the place enhances the sound and performance of the musicians, creating a unique experience for the audience.

The National Library of Russia episode explores the literary legacy of Russia, which has some of the world's most extensive collections of books and manuscripts. We get to see the architecture of the building and learn how it facilitates the preservation and discovery of these invaluable treasures.

The Norwegian Opera and Ballet House episode immerses us in the contemporary architecture that emphasizes the importance of transparency, allowing the city and the people to become part of the cultural experience.

The Salk Institute episode examines how a laboratory became a home for the breakthroughs in medical research. The architecture of the building blends in with the natural surroundings, creating a sense of openness that inspires the researchers.

The Centre Pompidou episode takes us on a journey through the revolutionary building that challenged the norms of architectural design. The building made the infrastructure and the workings of the place visible which was unlike any other building.

The Vatican episode takes us on an experience through its eclectic collections, its sacred art and its influential legacy. We get to see the buildings that have made the Vatican a place of spiritual significance.

The series is visually stunning, with stunning cinematography and CGI imagery that takes us deep inside the buildings, and their unique design. In addition to the visuals and narration, the show also features interviews with architects, curators, art historians, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective.

Cathedrals of Culture is a mesmerizing series that gives us a unique perspective on our world's most iconic architectural achievements. The show is a beautiful mix of art, culture and history that makes for a compelling and enlightening viewing experience.

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Centre Pompidou
6. Centre Pompidou
 
Brazilian filmmaker Karim Aïnouz trains his camera on the high-tech styling of Paris's Centre Pompidou, which made a splash when unveiled in 1977.
Berlin Philharmonica
5. Berlin Philharmonica
 
The history and architecture of the Berlin Philharmonic concert hall is shown through archival film and new footage by German director Wim Wenders.
Salk Institute
4. Salk Institute
 
Filmmaker Robert Redford explores the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California, designed by Louis Kahn to be an inspiring learning environment.
Haldon Prison
3. Haldon Prison
 
Danish director Michael Madsen takes a balanced look at the maximum-security Halden Prison in Norway, lauded as "the most humane prison in the world."
Russian National
2. Russian National
 
The 18th-century architecture of Russia's National Library in St. Petersburg is examined through the lens of Austrian filmmaker Michael Glawogger.
Oslo Opera
1. Oslo Opera
 
Norwegian film director Margreth Olin shares her cinematic perspective of the futuristic Opera House, built on the waterfront in Oslo, Norway.
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