Civilisations: Rise and Fall — Season 1
What caused the demise of the greatest civilisations of the ancient world?
About this season
What caused the demise of the greatest civilisations of the ancient world?
Episodes (4)
1. Rome
3.0Aired 24 November 2025 • 59 min
A weak emperor. A divided empire. Barbarians at the gate. Does this perfect storm mean the end of ancient Rome?
2. Egypt
3.0Aired 1 December 2025 • 59 min
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?
3. Aztecs
2.8Aired 8 December 2025 • 59 min
The Aztecs battle to save their civilisation from Spanish invaders – but is the real threat from the enemy within?
4. Japan
3.3Aired 15 December 2025 • 59 min
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?