NOVA Season 17 Episode 1 The Hidden City

The Hidden City is the first episode of the seventeenth season of the acclaimed science documentary television series, NOVA. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, which was lost for centuries before it was rediscovered in the early 19th century.

The episode begins with an overview of Petra's history and geography, exploring how the city was built by the Nabataean people over two thousand years ago, and how its location along the ancient trade routes made it a bustling hub of commerce and culture. We see stunning aerial shots of the city's carved sandstone architecture, including the famous Treasury and Monastery buildings, and get a sense of the awe and wonder that modern-day visitors must feel when they walk through Petra's narrow canyon entrance, known as the Siq.

From there, the episode delves deeper into the mysteries of Petra, examining the latest archaeological and scientific research that is helping to unlock the secrets of this hidden city. We meet experts in fields such as geology, archaeology, and anthropology, who share their insights into how Petra was built, how it functioned as a city, and how it eventually declined and was abandoned in the 7th century.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is its focus on the water systems of Petra. We learn how the Nabataeans ingeniously managed to capture and store rainwater in underground cisterns, allowing them to survive in a harsh desert environment and support a thriving city. We also see how modern-day scientists are using cutting-edge technology such as LIDAR scanning and 3D modeling to better understand the complex network of aqueducts, channels, and reservoirs that distributed water throughout Petra.

In addition to its scientific and historical content, The Hidden City also features some stunning visual sequences. We see timelapse footage of the changing light and shadow patterns on Petra's rock faces, as well as immersive virtual reality sequences that allow viewers to experience the city as if they were there in person.

Overall, The Hidden City is a fascinating and engaging exploration of one of the world's most intriguing historical sites. It offers a window into the lives and culture of an ancient people, as well as a glimpse into the cutting-edge science and technology that is helping us to better understand our shared human history. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good documentary, this episode is well worth watching.