NOVA Season 30 Episode 3 Lost Roman Treasure

In NOVA season 30 episode 3, titled "Lost Roman Treasure," viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the mystery behind some of the most valuable artifacts in the world - Roman treasure. The episode begins with the story of a metal detectorist named Dave Crisp who stumbled upon one of the largest hoards of Roman silver in history back in 2010 while walking his dog on a farm in rural England. The hoard contained 52,000 coins and is estimated to be worth around $7.4 million.

Viewers then learn about the history of the Roman Empire and their extensive trade routes that led them to expand their wealth and power. The Romans had an abundance of resources, including precious metals, which they used to create exquisite works of art and jewelry. The show highlights the importance of these artifacts, not just from a monetary standpoint, but from a historical and cultural perspective.

The episode then dives into the science and technology behind archaeology and how experts use various methods to uncover lost treasures. Viewers are taken to different archaeological sites, including ancient amphitheaters, aqueducts, and Roman mines, where researchers are still discovering new artifacts. The show also explores the latest technology that archaeology experts utilize in their work, including ground-penetrating radar and advanced imaging software.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to several archaeologists, coin specialists, and museum curators who share their knowledge of Roman artifacts, their history, and their value. They explain how the language on coins can give insight into the culture and politics of the time, and how the artwork on jewelry can reveal the Roman's exquisite taste and craftsmanship.

The show also brings into focus the ethical concerns surrounding the ownership and acquisition of ancient artifacts. Viewers learn about the various laws and regulations surrounding the trade and sale of these items and how some countries are fighting to repatriate their cultural artifacts.

Overall, "Lost Roman Treasure" is a fascinating and informative episode of NOVA that takes viewers on a journey through history, science, and technology to uncover and understand the cultural significance of one of the world's most precious treasures. It highlights the importance of preserving these artifacts for future generations and the responsibility of balancing the interests of archaeologists, collectors, and countries.