Ep 3. Impossible Naval Engineering

In season 4 episode 3 of Ancient Discoveries, viewers are taken on a journey through the fascinating history of naval engineering. The episode explores the ways in which ancient civilizations built their ships, from designing the vessels and constructing them to setting sail on long voyages across the seas.

The episode begins by examining the ingenious methods that ancient sailmakers used to weave massive, lightweight sails out of durable fibers. Experts show how ancient boat builders used complex calculations to design ships that would be stable in the roughest waters and wouldn't capsize under any circumstances. They also explore the ways in which ancient designers innovated with the use of different materials, such as copper and bronze, to make the boats more durable and efficient.

Next, the episode delves into the incredible feats of ancient naval engineering, such as building ships that would enable whole armies to be transported across oceans. Experts demonstrate how ancient builders assembled massive wooden sea vessels using precise techniques, including mortise and tenon joints and dovetailing. They also reveal how ancient shipbuilders used ropes and pulleys to lift and move mammoth timbers, some weighing several tons, into place.

As the episode continues, viewers learn about the fabled trireme, a highly maneuverable warship that was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to conquer vast territories across the Mediterranean. The experts explore the engineering that allowed triremes to sail so swiftly and efficiently, including the use of multiple rowers who worked together in perfect sync to propel the ships forward.

The episode also shines a light on submersibles, which were used by some ancient cultures to explore the ocean depths and even to wage war. Experts demonstrate how ancient divers used sophisticated air filtration systems to breathe underwater and how they navigated rough currents and potential dangers to explore the mysterious abyss.

Finally, the episode explores the role of ship navigation in ancient times, including the use of celestial navigation to chart course across vast seas without a compass or GPS. Viewers see how ancient sailors used constellations and the position of the sun to steer their ships towards their intended destination, even in the most treacherous of weather conditions.

All in all, season 4 episode 3 of Ancient Discoveries offers an incredible glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient naval engineering, showcasing the incredible ingenuity and skill of our ancient forebears. History enthusiasts and naval enthusiasts alike will delight in the wealth of information and stunning insights presented in this unforgettable episode.