TV series
Examine how ancient civilisations built some of the most magnificent structures on the face of the Earth, many centuries before the industrial revolution.
Availability
Checked Jul 22, 2026
Ancient Megastructures premiered March 19, 2011. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
Examine how ancient civilisations built some of the most magnificent structures on the face of the Earth, many centuries before the industrial revolution.
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
The Alhambra is the greatest example of Islamic military architecture in Europe. Sultan Muhammad I constructed this ingenious, impregnable fortress in 1238 amid treacherous political betrayals.
Where to watch Ancient Megastructures
Episode 2
Fiery Roman Emperor Justinian ordered the rebuilding of the great church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul almost 1500 years ago. Modern science now uncovers the secret to this vast golden dome's longevity.
Where to watch Ancient Megastructures
Episode 3
Carved into the side of a narrow gorge in the unforgiving deserts of Petra in modern day Jordan, the ancient Nabataeans turned engineering on its head to create their glorious royal city, Khazneh.
Directed by Kate HaddockWritten by Kate HaddockGuest stars Peter Harlowe, Suleiman Farajat, Shaher Rababe'h, Charles R. Ortloff, Eddie McCann, Khairieh Amr, Nicole Douek
Episode 4
From the ashes of London's Great Fire in 1666 rises Christopher Wren's daring architectural vision. As England's first Baroque cathedral, St Paul's is an icon to rival the grandeur of ancient Rome.
Where to watch Ancient Megastructures
Episode 5
Hidden deep in Cambodia's jungles, the temple of Angkor Wat is a towering monument to the Hindu god Vishnu, belying its origins as the mausoleum for a usurper king who murdered his great uncle.
Where to watch Ancient Megastructures
Episode 6
Built using techniques that surpass modern ones, the temples, altars and residences of Machu Picchu have resisted torrential rains, landslides and earth tremors since being abandoned by the Incas.
Where to watch Ancient MegastructuresEpisode information updated Jul 26, 2026
Available now in United States
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Alisdair SimpsonSelf - Narrator (voice)
National GeographicUnited States
DSPUnited Kingdom
National GeographicUnited States