National Geographic Specials Season 1 Episode 20 Engineering the Impossible: Colosseum

Engineering the Impossible: Colosseum is the 20th episode of National Geographic Specials' first season. The episode takes us on a journey to ancient Rome, specifically to understand the architectural and engineering marvel that is the Colosseum. The Colosseum is one of the most iconic structures in the world, and even thousands of years after its construction, it remains an astonishing feat of construction.

The episode focuses on the history of the Colosseum, from its construction in 79 AD to its current state of ruin. Using state-of-the-art computer graphics, the show recreates the Colosseum as it would have looked in its heyday, with thousands of cheering spectators filling the seats and gladiators battling in the arena.

The episode also delves into the engineering behind the Colosseum, revealing the incredible innovations that made this massive structure possible. This includes the use of concrete, which was a relatively new material at the time of the Colosseum's construction. The engineers and architects who designed the Colosseum had to figure out how to mold and pour massive amounts of concrete to create the Colosseum's distinctive arches and tiers.

The show also explores the construction techniques used to build the Colosseum's retractable roof, which was made of hundreds of canvas panels. The roof had to be strong enough to support massive amounts of weight, but also flexible enough to be easily opened and closed. The episode highlights the fascinating engineering behind this complex system and shows how it was operated by a team of skilled technicians.

In addition to the Colosseum's engineering, the episode explores the history of the structure itself and the ways in which it was used. The Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial contests, which were an important part of Roman culture. However, the Colosseum also served as a venue for other types of entertainment, including animal hunts, mock sea battles, and even public executions.

Throughout the episode, experts in engineering, architecture, and history provide insights and commentary on the Colosseum and its significance. They help to contextualize the Colosseum within the broader history of Ancient Rome and its culture, and provide fascinating insights into the engineering innovations that made this iconic structure possible.

Overall, Engineering the Impossible: Colosseum is an engaging and informative episode that offers a deep dive into one of the most important architectural and engineering feats in history. Through a combination of computer graphics, expert commentary, and historical context, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the complexities, innovations, and cultural significance of the Colosseum.