Ep 10. Akrotiri - Bronze Age Pompeii
- TV-PG
- August 29, 2014
- 27 min
In episode 10 of Cities of the Ancient World, viewers are transported back in time to the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri, located on the Greek island of Santorini. Known as the "Bronze Age Pompeii," Akrotiri was a thriving city until it was abruptly destroyed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption in the 16th century BCE.
Despite the destruction, archaeologists have been able to uncover a wealth of information about life in Akrotiri before the disaster. The episode explores the city's impressive architecture, advanced sewage systems, and intricate frescoes that provide insight into the beliefs and daily life of its residents.
Through interviews with archaeologists and historians, viewers learn about Akrotiri's trade networks and its role as a hub for commerce and culture. The city's location on a major maritime trade route allowed for the exchange of goods, ideas, and customs between civilizations in the Aegean, the Near East, and even as far away as Egypt.
The episode also touches on the possible causes of the volcanic eruption that destroyed Akrotiri, including the idea that it may have led to the downfall of the Minoan civilization on nearby Crete. Through stunning computer-generated images and aerial shots of Santorini, viewers get a sense of the island's unique geology, which made it vulnerable to such a catastrophic event.
Overall, episode 10 of Cities of the Ancient World offers a fascinating look at a city that was lost to time for thousands of years, but is finally being brought back to life through the efforts of dedicated archaeologists and historians. So, it can be a thrilling experience for the history and archaeology enthusiasts.