Name: Civilisations: Rise and Fall
Released: 2025-11-24T00:00:00.000Z
Cast: Sophie Okonedo

TV Show · Documentary · History

Four famous civilisations from the past face disaster. But why did they collapse? And could the treasures they left behind hold the clues to our own survival?

2025 · 59m

Starring Sophie Okonedo

EPISODE 1

Rome

A weak emperor. A divided empire. Barbarians at the gate. Does this perfect storm mean the end of ancient Rome?
EPISODE 2

Egypt

The 3,000-year-old civilisation of ancient Egypt faces disaster as war, famine and a toxic dynasty threaten its survival. Will Queen Cleopatra become the last of the pharaohs?
EPISODE 3

Aztecs

The Aztecs battle to save their civilisation from Spanish invaders – but is the real threat from the enemy within?
EPISODE 4

Japan

For 250 years, Japan has thrived, largely cut off from western influence - until US gunboats arrive. In the face of an industrialised west, how will reformers, the shogun and the samurai class react?