Ep 2. Rome's Gate to Hell

Unearthed season 8 episode 2 titled "Rome's Gate to Hell" takes us on a journey to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, located in modern-day Turkey. The episode explores the phenomenon of the "Gate to Hell", a legendary portal to the underworld that the Romans believed to be located in the city.

The episode begins by providing viewers with a historical context for the ancient city of Hierapolis, discussing its importance as a pilgrimage site for both the Greeks and Romans due to its hot springs, which were believed to have healing properties. The focus then shifts to the discovery of the Plutonium, an ancient temple dedicated to the god of the underworld, Pluto. The temple is believed to have been the site of the "Gate to Hell".

The episode features interviews with archaeologists who have studied the Plutonium, including Francesco D'Andria, who discovered the site in 2013. Through their insights, viewers learn about the complex architecture of the temple, which includes a series of underground chambers and passages. The Romans believed that the vapors emanating from the Plutonium were poisonous, and the episode discusses the scientific basis for this belief, exploring the geological processes and chemical reactions that produce the noxious gases.

The episode also examines the role of the "Gate to Hell" in ancient religion and mythology, discussing the ways in which it was incorporated into religious and cultural practices. Viewers learn about the cult of Cybele, a goddess worshipped in the city, and the ways in which the rituals associated with her were connected to the belief in the "Gate to Hell".

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the ancient city and its surrounding landscape, helping to bring the historical and archaeological contexts to life. The episode also includes computer-generated imagery and reconstructions that help to illustrate the complex structures of the Plutonium and the ways in which the Romans interacted with the temple.

As the episode concludes, viewers are left with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the "Gate to Hell" in ancient Rome. Whether you are a history buff, a mythology enthusiast, or simply a fan of stunning cinematography, Unearthed season 8 episode 2 is sure to keep you engaged and entertained from start to finish.