‎The Guide to Essential Italy - Apple TV

Available on Prime Video

In collaboration with the Smithsonian, The Great Courses brings you the exceptional gems and daily life of Italy's past and present in a visually stunning tour. Explore Rome, Florence, and Venice, and take side trips to places like Pompeii and Perugia. Visit important monuments, witness artistic masterpieces, and immerse yourself in Italian culture.

Educational · 2015 · 30 min

Starring Kenneth Bartlett

EPISODE 1

Rome: The Eternal City

Begin your journey with sites along the Tiber River, which tells the story of Rome through the ages. Climb the Monte Caprino, one of Rome's seven hills, to see monumental sculptures, Michelangelo's magnificent piazza and palaces, and the outstanding decoration and artworks of the Church of the Aracoeli. #Better Living

29 min · 21 Aug 2015
EPISODE 2

The Capitoline and the Colosseum

Adjoining the Capitoline Hill, take in the grand Piazza Venezia, with its Renaissance and Baroque palaces, famous talking statues, and masterful church of Santa Maria di Loreto. Continue with the imposing forums of Trajan and Augustus, finishing with the history and lore of Rome's iconic Colosseum, site of ancient entertainment and ritual.

28 min · 21 Aug 2015
EPISODE 3

Imperial Palaces of the Palatine Hill

Learn about the marvels of Roman hydraulic engineering, and visit the massive Circus Maximus and the spectacular ruined baths nearby. Then discover the great palace complex of Domitian, with the emperor's private quarters and ceremonial rooms, the houses of Augustus and Livia, and the Renaissance Farnese Gardens.

29 min · 21 Aug 2015
EPISODE 4

Pompeii: A City Frozen in Time

Take a detour to the amazingly preserved city of Pompeii, with its fascinating view into the lives of ordinary Roman citizens. Envision the grandeur of Pompeii's forum, with its temples, municipal buildings, and public baths. Explore luxurious mansions, brothels, and bakeries; the theatre, outdoor gymnasium, and arena; and the beautiful Villa of Mysteries.

29 min · 21 Aug 2015
EPISODE 5

The Roman Forum

Learn about the history of this monumental public space, the epicenter of Rome's empire. Visit essential sites of the Forum, including the Temples of Venus and of Rome, the Arch of Titus, the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, and the House and Temple of the Vestal Virgins.

29 min · 21 Aug 2015
EPISODE 6

Along the Via Sacra to the Capitoline

Continuing with highlights of the Forum, grasp the economic and civic functions of the Basilica Aemilia and the Basilica Julia. Take in important pagan shrines, the Curia or Senate House, and the Arch of Septimius Severus, and learn the remarkable stories of the Church of Saints Mark and Martina and the Mamertine Prison.

29 min · 21 Aug 2015

Kenneth Bartlett

Host