Watch In the Footsteps of Marco Polo

In the Footsteps of Marco Polo is a thrilling travelogue series that aired on PBS in 2008. The show follows the journey of two modern-day adventurers - Denis Belliveau and Francis O'Donnell, and their filmmaker Kathryn Klvana, as they embark on an epic journey across Asia to retrace the footsteps of the legendary Venetian explorer, Marco Polo.

The series is a fascinating exploration of the historical and cultural significance of the Silk Road, a trade route that spanned over 7,000 miles and connected Asia, Europe and Africa. Belliveau and O'Donnell set out to uncover the mysteries of this ancient route, which was once a center of innovation and exchange of ideas, goods, and cultures. Along the way, they discover the diverse landscapes, peoples, and traditions that have shaped the history of the Silk Road over the centuries.

The show is divided into eight episodes, each of which focuses on a different leg of Marco Polo's journey. The first episode begins in Venice, Italy, where the team sets out to explore Marco Polo's home city and learn about his life and legacy. They then travel to Turkey, where they visit historic sites such as the Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. From there, they make their way to Persia, where they explore the ruins of Persepolis and the ancient city of Isfahan.

The journey continues through Central Asia, where Belliveau and O'Donnell travel through the desert regions of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring the ancient cities of Bukhara and Samarkand, and meeting the nomadic Kyrgyz tribes. They then head to China, where they visit the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, before venturing into the remote Xinjiang province, where the team gets a rare glimpse into the customs and traditions of the Uighur people.

Throughout their journey, Belliveau and O'Donnell encounter a wide variety of people and cultures, from Turkish carpet merchants and Iranian farmers to Tajik musicians and Chinese calligraphers. They also face a number of challenges along the way, such as navigating treacherous mountain passes, negotiating with border guards, and struggling with language barriers.

The series is beautifully shot and expertly edited, with stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and colorful festivals bringing the Silk Road to life. The team is also accompanied by local experts and historians, who provide insightful commentary on the history and cultural significance of the places they visit. The show is a fascinating journey through time and space, revealing both the ancient wonders and the modern challenges of the Silk Road.

In the Footsteps of Marco Polo is a must-watch for anyone interested in travel, history, and cultural exchange. It is a journey of discovery that will take you to some of the most beautiful and remote places on earth, and give you a new perspective on the people and cultures that inhabit them. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or an armchair adventurer, this series is sure to inspire you to explore the world and its many wonders.

In the Footsteps of Marco Polo is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on December 1, 2008.