Ep 1. The Quest for King Arthur

In the season premiere of Expedition Unknown, host Josh Gates delves into the fascinating legend of King Arthur. For centuries, the tale of Arthur and his knights of the round table has captivated people around the world, yet the historical evidence for Arthur's existence is scarce.

Gates sets out on a quest to uncover the truth about this legendary figure, traversing the UK and France in search of clues. Along the way, he consults with various experts, including historians, archaeologists, and even a sword-maker.

The journey begins in Tintagel, a small village in Cornwall that is believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Here, Gates examines the ruins of Tintagel Castle, which date back to the 13th century and are said to have been the site of Arthur's castle. He also meets with local folklore expert Will Coleman, who shares some of the more obscure legends surrounding Arthur.

From there, Gates travels to Winchester, where he visits the Great Hall and examines the legendary Round Table itself. The table, which dates back to the 13th century, is said to be a replica of King Arthur's original table, and Gates investigates whether there is any historical truth to this claim.

In France, Gates explores the forests of Brocéliande, which are said to be the site of the mythical Avalon, where King Arthur was taken after his death. He interviews historian Christophe Levantal, who explains how the tale of Arthur evolved over the centuries.

One of the highlights of the episode is Gates' visit to a sword-maker in France who specializes in creating replicas of swords from the medieval period. The sword-maker demonstrates how these weapons were crafted and offers his insights on the type of sword that Arthur might have wielded.

Throughout the episode, Gates weaves in historical and archaeological evidence with fascinating myth and legend. He examines ancient manuscripts and visits historical sites, all in an attempt to piece together this incredible tale.

The quest for King Arthur is a thrilling adventure that takes viewers on a journey through history and legend. With Gates as their guide, they will be inspired by the power of myth and the importance of uncovering the truth behind ancient tales.