Watch Rebuilding Ancient Rome

Rebuilding Ancient Rome is a captivating documentary series that takes viewers on a journey through the ambitious and exciting attempt to recreate one of history's most iconic civilizations. Produced by CuriosityStream in 2015, the series is a fascinating glimpse into the past, as it explores the complexities of ancient Roman architecture, engineering, and design, while examining the cultural, social, and economic factors that propelled this ancient civilization to greatness.

The series presents a step-by-step forensic analysis of the remains of ancient Roman buildings and infrastructure, and offers new insights into the remarkable skills and knowledge possessed by Roman architects and builders. Along the way, viewers get to witness the extraordinary feats of engineering required to construct such towering and impressive monuments as the Colosseum and the Forum.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the series is the ultra-high-definition 3D modeling that enables viewers to see these ancient structures as they once stood, hundreds of years ago. This process requires an enormous amount of data, including survey data, laser scans, and digital photographs, which are then compiled into an incredibly accurate and detailed 3D model. This technology allows viewers to explore every nook and cranny of these ancient buildings, and to appreciate the extraordinary skill and craftsmanship that went into their construction.

The series is divided into five episodes, each offering a different perspective on the ancient Roman world. The first episode, titled "From Republic to Empire," explores the rise of Rome, and the transition from an agrarian republic to a sprawling empire. It examines the social, economic, and political factors behind this transformation, and offers a glimpse into the daily life of the average Roman citizen.

The second episode, "The Building Revolution," delves into the extraordinary knowledge and skill of ancient Roman engineers and architects. It examines the construction techniques used to build everything from aqueducts and sewers to temples and amphitheaters, and offers new insights into the science of architecture in ancient Rome.

The third episode, "The Rise of Concrete," examines the key role that concrete played in the construction of ancient Roman structures. It explores the numerous advantages of this material, and offers new insights into the chemical and physical properties of ancient Roman concrete. This episode is particularly fascinating to anyone with an interest in materials science or engineering.

The fourth episode, "The Colosseum Uncovered," focuses on one of the most iconic and recognizable structures of the ancient Roman world: the Colosseum. This episode examines the history of this ancient stadium, its construction, and its role as a center of entertainment and violence in ancient Roman society.

The fifth and final episode of the series, "Rome's Lost Wonder," examines the complex and often mysterious world of the ancient Roman water supply. It explores the construction of aqueducts and water systems, and offers new insights into the role that water played in ancient Roman society.

Overall, Rebuilding Ancient Rome is an engaging, well-produced documentary series that offers new perspectives on one of history's most intriguing and enigmatic civilizations. It is highly recommended for anyone with an interest in ancient history, engineering, or architecture, and is sure to leave viewers feeling inspired and amazed by the incredible feats of the ancient Roman world.

Rebuilding Ancient Rome is a series that ran for 1 seasons (15 episodes) between September 28, 2015 and on CuriosityStream