Secrets of Archaeology Season 1 Episode 12 The Forgotten Civilizations Of Anatolia

The Secrets of Archaeology is an enthralling show that explores different civilizations around the world and uncovers the secrets of their existence. In season 1, episode 12, entitled "The Forgotten Civilizations of Anatolia," we take a journey through the ancient civilization of Anatolia.

Anatolia, also known as Asia Minor, is a region in modern-day Turkey that has a rich history dating back to the Paleolithic era. The episode begins with an overview of the geography of the region and how it has influenced the people who lived there.

As we delve deeper into the past, we learn that Anatolia was home to several ancient civilizations, including the Hittites, Assyrians, and Urartians. These civilizations ruled the region from 4000 BC to 600 BC and left behind an incredible legacy of architecture, art, and culture.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Anatolian civilization is its religious practices. The Hittites, for example, worshipped the gods of nature and believed that everything in the world had a spirit. They created intricate and beautiful works of art, including statues and carvings that depicted their gods and spirits.

Another major section of the episode explores the city of Hattusa, which was once the capital of the ancient Hittite empire. Here, we see evidence of an advanced society with well-planned streets, buildings, and an impressive defense system. The Hittites were also extremely skilled metalworkers, and we see examples of their amazing jewelry and weaponry.

The documentary touches upon the presence of ziggurats - massive terraced step pyramids constructed of mud brick - throughout Anatolia as well. These would be present in various ancient civilizations of the region such as the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians in Mesopotamia as well.

One of the most notable features of Anatolian civilization is their written language. The Hittites developed a unique system of writing called cuneiform, which they used to record their history, religion, and cultural practices. It was the first written language to combine ideographs with a phonetic alphabet, and it forms the basis of many modern writing systems.

The episode also highlights the work of Turkish archaeologists, who are dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of Anatolian civilization. Through their efforts, we learn new information about ancient Anatolian society, including their trade networks, political alliances, and daily life.

Overall, "The Forgotten Civilizations of Anatolia" is a fascinating look into an ancient civilization that has been overlooked by mainstream history. This episode of Secrets of Archaeology reveals that the people of Anatolia were innovative, artistic, and deeply spiritual. It provides us with an exceptional insight into the life and culture of this fascinating civilization.