Mythical Roads Season 3 Episode 8 The Road of Sinbad (Middle East)

In this episode of Mythical Roads, we journey along the legendary Road of Sinbad in the Middle East. This road is named after the famous sailor Sinbad from the tales of "One Thousand and One Nights". Our hosts, Sam and Albert, take us on a thrilling adventure as they retrace Sinbad's steps and explore the exotic and ancient cities along the way.

To start off, Sam and Albert begin their journey in the bustling city of Basra, Iraq. This city was a major port on the Persian Gulf, and it was from here that Sinbad set sail on his many adventures. The hosts explore the city's rich history, visiting the famous Basra Citadel and the nearby marshes that were once the hunting grounds of the Mesopotamian kings.

Next, the hosts head east towards the ancient city of Ur, which was once a major center of Sumerian culture. They marvel at the extensive ruins of this once-great city, which include the famous Ziggurat of Ur and the Great Death Pit. It's fascinating to see the intricate details of the Sumerian architecture and learn about their innovative agricultural practices that allowed them to sustain a thriving civilization in such a harsh environment.

As they continue their journey, Sam and Albert make a stop in the city of Baghdad. Here, they explore the famous Al-Mustansiriya School, an ancient institution of learning that dates back to the 13th century. They also visit the Al-Kadhimiya Mosque, a revered Shia shrine that houses the tombs of Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Imam Hussein, and his half-brother, Imam Abbas.

From Baghdad, the duo heads south towards the port city of Basra, where they finally get to experience the thrill of sailing the high seas, just like Sinbad. They board a traditional dhow boat and set sail for the island of Bahrain, known for its pearl diving industry and exotic landscapes. They visit the famous Al-Fateh Mosque, which boasts one of the largest fiberglass domes in the world and houses a library and a museum. They also visit the Bahrain National Museum, where they learn about the island's history and culture, as well as its links to the ancient Dilmun civilization.

Finally, Sam and Albert visit the city of Muscat in Oman. This city was an important stop on the ancient spice trade route, and it's no wonder why. They visit the Al-Jalali and Al-Mirani forts, which were built in the 16th century to protect the city from invading Portuguese troops. They also explore the city's bustling markets, known for their exotic spices, perfumes, and textiles.

Overall, this episode of Mythical Roads takes us on a fascinating journey through the Middle East, where we discover the rich history and culture of the ancient civilizations that once thrived along the Road of Sinbad. Sam and Albert bring these amazing destinations to life with their energetic and informative commentary, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of this part of the world.