Watch The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World

Name: The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World
Released: 2018-10-12
Cast: Steven L. Tuck

2018
1 Season

The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World is a fascinating documentary series from The Great Courses Signature Collection that explores some of the most remarkable palaces from ancient history. Hosted by archaeologist and historian Steven L. Tuck, the show takes viewers on a journey through time, exploring the magnificent structures that were built by some of the world's most powerful and influential rulers.

Throughout the series, Tuck guides viewers through a series of stunning ancient palaces, each with a unique story to tell. From the palace of King Minos in Crete to the Forbidden City of China, viewers are transported to a different place and time with each episode. We are also taken to the palaces of Assyrian kings, Minoan rulers, and Persian emperors, allowing us to dive deep into the art, architecture, and culture of these ancient societies.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Architecture of Power is its focus on the architects and craftsmen behind these magnificent palaces. Tuck explores the fascinating stories of these professionals, examining the techniques and materials they used to create such remarkable structures. The show also deals with the complex social and political dynamics that influenced the architecture of these buildings, helping us to understand the role that these palaces played in the lives of those who lived and worked in them.

Throughout the series, Tuck brings his extensive knowledge and expertise to bear, offering insights into the engineering, design, and symbolism behind these impressive structures. We learn about the complex engineering that allowed the palace of King Minos to withstand earthquakes, the intricate network of water management systems that kept the Mongol palace of Xanadu running efficiently, and the mysterious symbolism behind the ziggurats of Mesopotamia.

One of the key features of The Architecture of Power is its exceptional production values. The show is filmed in stunning high-definition, with sweeping aerial shots and detailed close-ups that capture the beauty and complexity of each palace in exquisite detail. Similarly, the soundtrack is carefully crafted to enhance the viewing experience, with a diverse array of instruments and musical styles that reflect the cultural and historical contexts of each palace.

Overall, The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World is an utterly engrossing documentary series that offers viewers a unique glimpse into the art, architecture, and culture of some of the world's most fascinating ancient societies. Through its vivid portrayals of these remarkable structures, the show brings history to life, helping us to appreciate the remarkable ingenuity and creativity of the architects and craftsmen who built them. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Architecture of Power is a show that is not to be missed.

The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between October 12, 2018 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection

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Seasons

24. Palaces in a World of Democracies

October 12, 2018

In this final episode, reflect on the timeless themes explored in this series. First, investigate the White House, where each decorative decision reflects political agenda (and defiance to the previous administration). Then, discover the surprising connection between the Amazon headquarters and ancient imperial palaces as ancient ideas come full circle in our modern era.

23. Renaissance Palaces and the Classical Revival

October 12, 2018

Here we visit such highlights of Renaissance architecture as Kensington Palace and the Tuileries Palace and discover how they were influenced by classical forms. Perhaps most impressive is the Palace of Versailles, which boasted Europe's largest orange tree collection and now attracts tourists from all over the world.

22. The Palace of Montezuma II at Tenochtitlán

October 12, 2018

The Aztec capital, founded in a swamp, developed into the largest city in the Pre-Columbian Americas. Meet Montezuma II, creator of Tenochtitlán, a staunch believer in omens, and father to hundreds. Learn how a Spanish army of a few hundred men led by Hernan Cortes conquered an empire of millions.

21. China's Endless Palace: Weiyang Palace

October 12, 2018

Weiyang, China's Endless Palace, represented not only an emperor but the very concept of the ever-expanding empire itself. Covering an area of 1,200 acres, it was the largest imperial palace ever built. You'll learn how the construction of the palace reflected imperialism as well as Confucianism, the cornerstone of Chinese philosophy.

20. Constantine's Palace, Constantinople

October 12, 2018

Constantinople was a fresh start for the then-600-year-old Roman Empire, becoming the greatest European city of the Middle Ages. Its founder, Constantine, was (supposedly) a devout Christian. Explore his palace, which featured colossal sculptures and the famed hippodrome, where chariot races, animal hunts, and prisoner executions were held.

19. Diocletian's Retirement Palace, Split

October 12, 2018

Diocletian came to power in the 3rd century A.D., a turbulent time for the Roman Empire, which had seen 25 emperors over the course of 50 years. Learn how Diocletian, a visionary and problem-solver, brought stability to the empire and how his palace represented a radical departure from traditional styles.

18. Hadrian's Villa, Tivoli

October 12, 2018

Hadrian was an artistic genius who personally designed the palace of his dreams to reflect his many passions, including his love of Greek philosophy. His luxurious villa, now a UNESCO world heritage site, set the standard for Roman architecture. Understand more about Hadrian, a figure so influential that he redefined the concept of Virtus, or manliness.

17. Rome's Great Imperial Palace of Domitian

October 12, 2018

The word "palace" comes from the Palatine Hill in Rome, which housed Domitian's 200-year-old palace. This structure - impeccably built and placed - was essentially the White House for Roman emperors. Learn why the enormous residence and its innovative design was mythologized by poets, who compared Domitian to Jupiter.

16. Nero's Golden House: A Roman Palace Theater

October 12, 2018

Nero built the infamous Domus Aurea (Golden House), a 124-acre Xanadu that enraged the rich whose land he occupied. It featured a lavish watered garden with incredible rotating sculptures that could spray perfume. Walking distance from the Colosseum, this palace was literally covered in gold.

15. Nero's Domus Transitoria at Rome

October 12, 2018

A huge fan of spectacle, Nero sponsored grand chariot races and began an architectural revolution. We find Nero's palaces made of a new Roman concrete where bespoke designs could finally replace the utilitarian boxes of stone, thus making way for domed ceilings, custom columns, and any form he desired.

14. Caligula's Floating Palaces

October 12, 2018

Taking inspiration from Cleopatra as well as the ancient Hellenistic rulers, Caligula's Floating Palaces included all the amenities you would expect to find onboard modern cruise ships: spacious baths, banquet halls, and live music. Caligula, himself, is also quite fascinating, as is the story of the ships' rediscovery.

13. Herod the Great's Summer and Winter Palaces

October 12, 2018

Herod was a complex king whose royal image was defined by insecurity, innovation, and a need to reflect his Jewish identity. Starting with his heated Roman baths in each palace, understand how the king was a master of the land and was able to give his people a marvelous oasis in the desert.

12. Masada: Herod the Great between East and West

October 12, 2018

Herod the Great is a well-studied, yet controversial, figure. Examine in depth his brilliant methods and materials, including the construction of Masada, which involved many logistical challenges as giant marble tesserae slabs were shipped across the desert and hoisted up as walls. Discover Herod's most startling and mesmerizing architectural invention.

11. Greek Palaces Come to Roman Italy

October 12, 2018

Two men, Marcus Claudius Marcellus and Lucius Licinius Lucullus, were largely responsible for the transformation of Roman architecture; their story is one of political strategy, Persian influence, and sheer determination. Consider why Lucullus may be the most important yet underrated figure in the history of palace creation.

10. Greek Palaces in Conquered Lands II

January 1, 1970

This is the tale of two palaces - one in Jordan, the other in Libya - in the wake of Alexander the Great's death. Both were products of military expansion and occupation, but they displayed distinct identities. Learn how the palace origins influenced the design and layout of each.

9. Greek Palaces in Conquered Lands I

October 12, 2018

While scholars debate the details, it's undeniable that Alexander the Great's conquest of the Persian Empire profoundly changed the world. View his astonishing palaces, boasting gymnasiums and enormous swimming pools and home to elite drinking parties. Examine the unmistakable Greek style blended with Persian and Assyrian influences characteristic of the period.

8. Persepolis: Palace of the Persians

October 12, 2018

The lore of Persepolis includes the exploits of many great kings. Explore the great citadel at Persepolis with its famed flight of 111 steps leading to the Gate of All Nations, which held a set of wood and bronze doors standing 20 feet high. Learn of the spectacular stone masonry and powerful art filled with lions and mythological creatures.

7. Nineveh: The Architecture of Assyrian Power

October 12, 2018

Discover the last great Assyrian palace and the largest city the world had ever seen before the Babylonian conquest. See how its designers accomplished incredible civil engineering feats, diverting entire rivers into canals that offered protection and transportation. Also meet the magnificent lamassu guardians that flanked the palace entrances, each of which stood over 12 feet tall.

6. The Assyrian Palace at Nimrud: Empire in Stone

October 12, 2018

The Assyrian palace at Nimrud, with its imposing 20-foot gates, was designed by Ashurnasirpal II. An epic braggart, he loved to write of his conquests of nature and his knowledge of tree species. Clearly an intellectual, he describes in detail the glory of feasts he threw - and the math behind them.

5. Palace of Nestor at Pylos and Bronze Age Greece

October 12, 2018

Explore the Palace of Nestor, an extraordinary complex centered around the throne room. We travel in time from the immense treasures discovered in 2015 back to the ancient styles the Mycenaeans developed to bring these elaborate structures to life. Consider what the arrangement of rooms reveals about how royals lived and maintained control.

4. Phaistos: Palaces between Asia and Europe

October 12, 2018

Archaeology often involves a great deal of detective work, as is the case with the mysterious Bronze Age Crete. The myth of Daedalus and his labyrinth symbolizes Crete's location at the intersection of multiple cultures. Discover the Phaistos Palace, where extravagant religious rituals and entertainment spectacles were held.

3. Amarna: Palace of the First Sun King

October 12, 2018

Pharoah Amenhotep IV takes on a new name - Akhenaten - and shifts Egypt's capital to the fascinating city of Amarna. See how his worship of the sun disk defined an era built on temple crops, sacrifices, and complete subservience to the pharaoh. Also learn how relocating his seat of power helped Akhenaten wrestle authority away from religious leaders.

2. Malkata Palace: Pharaoh, Foreigners, and Gods

October 12, 2018

Now, travel back to the 14th century B.C., a time of peace, prosperity, and plentitude for Egyptians. Learn how the Malkata Palace represents a microcosm of Egypt. Architectural details reveal little-known facts about religious rituals and telling insights into how pharaohs attempted to assert their domination over others.

1. Palaces Past and Present

October 12, 2018

Begin your tour of the ancient world by a look at our modern one as you explore the palaces of Saddam Hussein. Discover how he called upon the ancient Egyptians and Babylonians for inspiration and also how the architecture changed over time in response to threats from Iran and the United States. #History

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Where to Watch The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World

The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World is available for streaming on the The Great Courses Signature Collection website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Architecture of Power: Great Palaces of the Ancient World on demand at Amazon Prime and Amazon.