How Did They Build That? Season 2 Episode 7 Steep & Stunning

In season 2 episode 7 of How Did They Build That?, titled "Steep & Stunning," viewers are taken on a journey to discover the fascinating stories behind some of the world's most awe-inspiring buildings and infrastructure projects. This particular episode focuses on the challenges involved in constructing structures on steep, rugged terrain.

The episode starts with a look at the construction of a breathtaking cliffside villa in Malibu, California. Viewers learn about the incredible engineering feats required to build this stunning architectural marvel on a nearly vertical slope overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The program delves into the unique design elements of the villa, including a cantilevered infinity pool jutting over the edge of the bluff, and the advanced techniques used to protect the building from landslides and natural erosion.

Next, the episode travels to Peru to explore the breathtaking Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel perched atop a mountain ridge in the Andes. Viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques used by the Inca people to construct this remarkable complex more than 500 years ago. They also learn about the modern-day efforts to preserve this treasured UNESCO World Heritage site from the damage caused by tens of thousands of daily visitors.

The episode then shifts its focus to the world-renowned Transfagarasan Highway in Romania. This incredible roadway winds its way through the scenic Carpathian Mountains, and presents some of the most challenging engineering and construction problems imaginable. Viewers get to see the incredible feats of engineering that went into carving this road into the steep mountain terrain, including the use of explosives and heavy machinery to blast through rock.

Finally, "Steep & Stunning" takes viewers to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where they learn about the construction of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue that stands atop Corcovado Mountain. This is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, and the episode explores how the statue's designers overcame the unique challenges faced in erecting a 98-foot-tall statue on a steep mountain peak. Viewers learn about the logistics involved in transporting the massive concrete blocks used to build the statue up the mountain, and the advanced techniques required to secure the statue to the rock face to withstand high winds and other extreme weather conditions.

Overall, "Steep & Stunning" is a fascinating look at the incredible ingenuity and determination required to build some of the most remarkable structures in the world. Viewers will be amazed by the engineering feats involved in constructing buildings and infrastructure on steep, rugged terrain, and gain a new appreciation for the men and women who made it all possible.