Unearthed - Series Six

The Red Pyramid, Dahshur. This iconic structure is Egypt’s first true Pyramid – a trailblazing design that changes Egyptian history forever.

Now, investigators have unique access to venture inside this mysterious structure. They investigate how one Pharoah went to incredible lengths to build a perfect Pyramid for his journey into the afterlife.

Oplontis: only two miles from Pompeii, excavators uncover two monumental villas, frozen in time by the devastating eruption of 79 CE.  

One is a palatial residence built on a cliff, featuring an immense swimming pool, private baths and stunning frescoes. It reveals new evidence about the wrath of the mighty volcano. It also offers a unique glimpse into the lavish life of the wealthiest in the Roman Empire… and unparalleled insights about their slaves.

Hadrian’s Villa – the largest Roman palace in the world. It was built for one of Rome’s greatest rulers – the enigmatic emperor Hadrian.

Now, archaeologists and underground explorers with privileged access are examining the darkest unseen corners of this site, to reveal the incredible lengths the ambitious but enigmatic emperor went to in his quest to build the world’s greatest imperial palace.

The lost city of Kish, Iraq. This mysterious metropolis at the heart of the cradle of civilisation is home to some of the world’s first kings.

Now, after decades of conflict in Iraq, archaeologists have rare access to investigate this legendary city’s secrets. They head deep into ancient caves, climb over sun-scorched ruins, launch a high-resolution drone, and put ancient construction techniques to the test.

The great necropolis of Abusir hosts megastructures unlike any found in Egypt before: gleaming white Sun Temples. Closed to the public for decades, now investigators have rare access to explore these ruins - and the tombs alongside them - to unearth the surprising story of Egypt’s Sun Cult Pharaohs.

Nimrud, in Northern Iraq. 3000 years ago, this was the most spectacular city on earth, with huge megastructures, fine sculpture, and botanical gardens filled with animals from around the world.

Now, nearly a decade after the ancient city was tragically destroyed by terrorists, archaeologists finally return to salvage what they can from the wreckage.

The biggest excavation project in Egyptian history - spanning seventy years - has now made the Avenue accessible for the first time. Investigators decode hieroglyphs carved into the base of sphinxes to reveal the Pharaohs who build this ancient marvel.

Palmyra, Syria. This glorious ancient city sits in the heart of the Syrian desert. But the passage of time and recent destruction by ISIS terrorists, have left it in ruins.

Dendera temple is one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt. Elaborate zodiac symbols in vibrant colors adorn its walls, and ongoing restoration uncovers the story of its past.

The iconic ruler, Alexander the Great, is one of the world’s most successful military commanders. He builds the largest empire the world had ever seen and dies at the age of just 32. His magnificent mausoleum is said to rival the seven wonders of the world – but it mysteriously vanishes from history. This lost monument is one of archaeology’s biggest mysteries.

Archaeologist Dora Katsonopolou and her team believe they have unearthed the ruins of this ancient metropolis. Ancient accounts suggest Helike falls victim to Poseidon’s wrath. But did his vengeance summon up a violent earthquake, or a devastating tsunami?

The investigators carry out cutting-edge experiments to solve the mystery of Helike’s fatal final days.

The underwater city of Olous, hidden off the coast of Crete. This ancient metropolis has been frozen in time on the sea floor of the Mediterranean for thousands of years. Now, archaeologists SCUBA dive to explore the city and uncover its secrets for the first time.