Ancient Mysteries

Épisode 1 - Bigfoot

7 janvier 1994

An examination of the Bigfoot legend includes 1967 footage of what some believe to be the creature.

Épisode 2 - Origin of the Vampire

14 janvier 1994

Exploring the myths and legends surrounding vampires, the “immortal monsters that prey on the living and survive by drinking [blood].”

Épisode 3 - The Lost Ark of the Covenant

21 janvier 1994

One of the holiest relics on earth, the Ark of the Covenant is the symbol of the agreement of faith made between God and the Israelites. The Ark is said to contain the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's Rod, and manna. But how could such an important artifact disappear without a trace? Did it ever really exist? ANCIENT MYSTERIES® circles the globe in search of clues to the enduring mystery of the fate of the fabled Ark. Meet biblical historians who have dedicated their lives to the search and follow a tangled web of clues that range from Biblical accounts to modern discoveries. Hear fascinating stories of its appearance throughout history and learn of the incredible powers that it allegedly possesses. Extraordinary artwork, expert commentary, and the most recent theories culminate in the definitive investigation of the legendary LOST ARK.

Épisode 4 - The Lost Pharaoh

17 juin 1994

A 1980 Canadian documentary on Pharaoh Akhenaten and the archaeological detective work that shed light on his reign. Akhenaten ruled for 17 years in the 14th century B.C.; his successor was his son-in-law, King Tut.

Épisode 5 - The Marble Hunter

8 juillet 1994

A chronicle of Charles Fellows' travels through Turkey and Greece includes marble ruins he found at Xanthos.

Épisode 6 - Northern Lights

29 juillet 1994

"The Northern Lights," a documentary exploring scientific findings on the aurora borealis. Also, how an auroral display can affect power lines and radio waves; past theories on the phenomenon.

Épisode 1 - Enigma of the Dead Sea Scrolls

7 octobre 1994

The "Enigma of the Dead Sea Scrolls," which contain most of the books of the Old Testament. Included: the accidental discovery of the scrolls in 1947 and subsequent findings; interviews with archaeologists.

Épisode 2 - Rapa Nui

14 octobre 1994

A look at the making of "Rapa Nui," which speculates on the native inhabitants of Easter Island, who built strange giant statues before the Dutch arrived in 1722.

Épisode 3 - The Odyssey of Troy

10 février 1995

"The Odyssey of Troy" seeks evidence of historical accuracy in Homer's account of the Trojan War in the 13th century B.C. Included: a recap of archaeological digs on the Trojan Plain of northwestern Turkey.

Épisode 4 - The Shroud of Turin

21 avril 1995

The Shroud of Turin, long thought to be Jesus Christ's burial garment, has inspired the faithful for centuries. But one very important question remains is it authentic, or merely a medieval forgery? Since it first appeared in 1357, the Shroud, a yellowed linen cloth that bears the faint image of a crucified man, has prompted one of the greatest detective stories of modern times. Now, ANCIENT MYSTERIES tackles the enigma of the Shroud with an in-depth examination of the garment and its history. Through numerous scientific tests, conflicting and sometimes shocking results have kept its true origins a mystery, but startling new evidence suggests that the shroud may have actually covered the body of Christ. Get an up-close look at the famed Shroud, and examine the results of the test that seem to prove it is genuine.

Épisode 5 - Shreds of Evidence

21 avril 1995

A report on the mystery surrounding the Shroud of Turin, thought by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus. Scientists in three countries investigating the shroud's authenticity are observed using carbon dating and other techniques.

Épisode 6 - Shadow of the Templars

12 mai 1995

Tracing the rise and fall of Knights Templars, a religious-military order that fought for Christ during the 12th and 13th centuries, according to narrator Henry Lincoln. Included: a look at their activities during the Crusades; and their suppression by King Philip IV of France.

Épisode 7 - Robot Journey Into the Past

26 mai 1995

Examining the Upuaut project, in which robotic cameras explored the Great Pyramid of Cheops. Included: comments from writers Robert Bauval and Adrian Gilbert (“The Orion Project”), and Emma Freud.

Épisode 8 - Myth of the Spanish Inquisition

9 juin 1995

An examination of the Catholic Church's orthodoxy court asserts that it was a victim of a Protestant "propaganda campaign." Included: interviews with historians; excerpts from silent films; a Monty Python spoof of the Inquisition; and Verdi's opera "Don Carlos."

Épisode 9 - The Loch Ness Monster

21 juillet 1995

A report on the ongoing search for the Loch Ness monster examines eyewitness accounts and scientific evidence. Included: footage of Nessie (maybe); sonar readings; an uncovered hoax.

Épisode 10 - Easter Island: The Secrets

4 août 1995

"Easter Island: The Secrets" offers theories concerning the origin of the ancient stone statues that populate the island, who carved them, and why.

Épisode 1 - The Hidden City of Petra

8 septembre 1995

It remained hidden behind walls of sheer rock for more than 2,000 years. In 1812, Johann Burckhardt ventured into the Jordanian desert and discovered hundreds of structures stretching for miles along narrow canyons: the ancient city of Petra. Narrated by Leonard Nimoy, ANCIENT MYSTERIES® journeys into the past, unlocking the secrets long held captive behind Jordan's sandstone cliffs. Nearly 200 years after its discovery, archaeologists are still astonished at the ruins of Petra. The city evokes wonder in all who behold it--who were the people who carved these structures into solid rock, and how? Wander through what was once a thriving, sophisticated city and glean insight into the Nabataeans, the ancient people who lived and worked here. What caused their strange disappearance? Interviews with archaeologists and anthropologists and stunning location footage illuminate an incredible account of THE HIDDEN CITY OF PETRA.

Épisode 2 - Palenque: The Maya

15 septembre 1995

Épisode 3 - Camelot

22 septembre 1995

The court of King Arthur, Camelot was at the center of a world of magic and honor. But what lies behind this captivating legend?

Épisode 4 - Vikings in North America

6 octobre 1995

The exploits of Eric the Red. The legend of Leif Ericson. The struggle for power the bond of a family and the courage to sail beyond a dark and dangerous ocean. Guided by their hopes the explorers of the North moved their horizon west in an odyssey of ice and uncertainity. Leaving Norway for Iceland and an inauspicious tundra they named Greenland the Norse in their long boats proved sturdy enough to reach one more distant shore--VINLAND. At the dawn of the century with the chance to settle a new home the long search seemed over and the future bright. Yet their stay proved so brief as to almost escape history until a fantastic find just thirty years ago by Helge Ingstad. Scandinavian sagas tell the tales of Leif the Lucky and the Land of Grapes but are these merely boastful yarns of magical heroes or historical finds? Five hundred years before Christopher Columbus can we find VIKINGS IN NORTH AMERICA?

Épisode 5 - Machu Picchu: City in the Sky

8 octobre 1995

The structure of Machu Picchu, originally built by the Incas, is one of the most archaeologically stunning mysteries of the past. However, even today we are still unsure what its purpose was. Was it an observatory? A pleasure retreat? Or a Fortress? This programme attempts to uncover the historical and spiritual mysteries of this magical place.

Épisode 6 - Quest for the Fountain of Youth

13 octobre 1995

It is one of the most puzzling tales to come out of the European Age of Discovery. And yet, the alleged search for the Fountain of Youth by Spanish explorer Ponce de León was almost certainly influenced by folklore from many centuries before. In this tale of a quest for immortality, explore the origins of the powerful belief in water mythology - said to be traced back at least as far as the third century. Listen to leading historians propose that despite the account of León's venerable pursuit, he was actually driven by dreams of gold and riches, not the fabled fountain. Or is it possible that when the famed explorer alighted on Florida's shores, he wasn't looking for the fountain at all? The Quest for the Fountain of Youth is the ultimate examination o this much-debated, timeless legend.

Épisode 7 - The Timber Castles of England

20 octobre 1995

The history of the timber castles that once populated medieval England, but are only mounds of earth today.

Épisode 8 - Secret Mounds of Prehistoric America

29 octobre 1995

Explore some of the most intriguing archaeological sites on earth - the puzzling pre-historic mounds built by the ancient residents of North America.

Épisode 9 - The Search for Shangri-La

3 novembre 1995

A tale told through the centuries of a lost, hidden civilization that lives in an euphoric state of peace and harmony enclosed by impassable mountains.

Épisode 10 - Who Built Stonehenge?

10 novembre 1995

An investigation of the origins of Stonehenge, the prehistoric megaliths on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, believed to have been erected during the Neolithic period (circa 2000 B.C.).

Épisode 11 - Atlantis: The Lost Civilization

17 novembre 1995

Exploring the existence of the lost civilization of Atlantis, which was first mentioned in Plato's writings and is said to have sunk into the ocean in a day and a night.

Épisode 12 - The Search for Alexander the Great

19 novembre 1995

Efforts to locate the remains of Alexander the Great. Included: the discovery of treasures in northern Greece that appear to have belonged to his father, Phillip II of Macedonia.

Épisode 13 - The Riddle of the Maya

24 novembre 1995

The Maya temple city of Palenque in Chiapas, Mexico, abandoned by the Mayans around 835 A.D., is explored. Included: the Temple of Inscriptions, a sarcophagus, and the great Palace.

Épisode 14 - The Lost Canyon of the Pueblos

26 novembre 1995

Épisode 15 - Naked Warriors of Europe

3 décembre 1995

An examination of the Celts, whose culture reached its zenith in Europe between the 5th and 1st centuries B.C. Included: their artwork, religious practices and fighting tactics.

Épisode 16 - Life and Death in Britain's Ancient Theaters

10 décembre 1995

A look at British theater in the Elizabethan age.

Épisode 17 - Quest for the Holy Lance

24 décembre 1995

A Roman soldier takes his spear and pierces the side of Christ as he hangs on a crucifix. Thus, the legend of the Holy Lance is born. Relics associated with the life of Christ have inspired awe and obsession throughout the ages. Giants of history ranging from Attila the Hun, Charlamagne and Adolf Hitler desired possession of this artifact that supposedly contains the power of God. What is the true story of the Holy Lance, and does it exist today?

Épisode 18 - Blood and Honor at the First Olympics

11 janvier 1996

A look at the first Olympic competitions in Greece, circa 776 B.C.

Épisode 19 - The Sunken City

14 janvier 1996

The ancient city of Ostia, Italy, used at one time as the port of Rome, from its founding by Ancus Marcius (641-616 B.C.) to its eventual decline and abandonment over a 1600-year period.

Épisode 20 - The Miraculous Canals of Venice

21 janvier 1996

"The Miraculous Canals of Venice" looks into why - and how - Venetians built their city on 120 islands in the Adriatic. The city was first settled in the 5th century by people fleeing invading barbarians, and reached the height of its commercial and political prosperity in the 1500s.

Épisode 21 - Blood and Treasure in Peru

1 février 1996

“Blood and Treasure in Peru” chronicles the discovery - by grave robbers - of the royal tombs of Sipan, a treasure trove of artifacts produced about A..D. 400, and the find's effect on the international art market. The artifacts were produced by the Moche people, whose civilization flourished in Peru between the 1st and 9th centuries A.D.

Épisode 22 - Pompeii: Buried Alive

2 février 1996

Examining the ruins of Pompeii and neighboring Herculaneum, which were destroyed by a volcano in A.D. 79. Included are comments from archaeological superintendent Baldassare Conticello, who explains what the sites reveal about Roman life. Also: the National Archaeological Museum in Naples and the J. Paul Getty Museum in California.

Épisode 23 - Hadrian's Wall

4 février 1996

Speculation on why the Roman emperor Hadrian constructed a wall along the empire's British frontier in the 2nd century. The wall (and accompanying fortifications) was built between A.D.122 and 136, and was abandoned by the end of the 4th century.

Épisode 24 - Secrets of the Pueblo

22 février 1996

An examination of the 19 Pueblo towns located in New Mexico's Chaco Canyon, believed to be some of the earliest dwellings in North America. Included: a history of the Pueblo tribe.

Épisode 25 - The Puzzling Pyramids of Mexico

29 février 1996

An examination of the pyramids in the Mexican city of Teotihuacan. Also: the Temple of the Feathered Spirit and the Avenue of the Dead.

Épisode 26 - The Rosetta Stone

21 mars 1996

An examination of the Rosetta stone, discovered in 1799, which provided French scholar Jean Francois Champollion the key to deciphering ancient Egyptian documents that were written in hieroglyphics.

Épisode 27 - China's Wall of Doom

21 mars 1996

The mysterious gravesite of an ancient Chinese emperor, who had an "army" of 7000 terra cotta statues built around the tomb to guard it against intruders.

Épisode 28 - Astrology: Secrets in the Stars

28 mars 1996

Are the secrets truly written in the heavens, or is the ancient practice of astrology further evidence of mankind's need to seek fate and meaning beyond the "real" world?

Épisode 29 - The Queen Pharaoh

11 avril 1996

A profile of Egypt's Queen Hatshepsut attempts to explain why the male rulers who followed her tried to erase her name from history, despite her leadership on the battlefield and in government.

Épisode 30 - Secrets of Sex: The Kama Sutra

18 avril 1996

An examination of the Kamasutra, the Hindu text that details "the delights of the human sexual experience," focuses on its religious origins and whether it is sacred or profane. Included: comments from author Deepak Chopra.

Épisode 31 - Temples of Eternity

21 avril 1996

Egyptian temples are explored, including Karnak and Luxor.

Épisode 32 - The Forbidden City: The Dynasty and Destiny

25 avril 1996

Inside China's Forbidden City, an enclave of temples and palaces built in the 15th century, which served as home to emperors and their households but was closed to the public until 1911, when Emperor Pu Yi was forced to abdicate his throne.

Épisode 33 - Incredible Monuments of Rome

5 mai 1996

"The Incredible Monuments of Ancient Rome," and the emperors who had these palaces, arenas and temples built.

Épisode 34 - Lost Spirits of Cambodia

9 mai 1996

A visit to the ruins of the imperial city of Angkor in Cambodia, built over 75 square miles between the 9th and 12th centuries. Angkor's landmark was Angkor Wat, a temple to the Hindu god Vishnu. At its peak, Angkor was home to a million people.

Épisode 35 - Lost Legions of Rome

12 mai 1996

“Lost Legions of Rome” explores the efficacy and the legacy of Rome's military machine, which was sometimes more powerful than the emperors it was supposed to serve. Examined: the Roman army's conquests, tactics and weapons.

Épisode 36 - Voodoo!

16 mai 1996

A survey of voodoo, an amalgam of African religions and Christianity, which is still practiced in the Caribbean, South America and the U.S. The program searches for voodoo's roots in Africa, examines its role in Caribbean history and visits voodoo temples.

Épisode 37 - Who Built The Catacombs

Beneath the mighty capital of the Roman Empire hides a labyrinth of secret passages and hidden chambers. It is the ancient underground cemeteries used by the Christian and Jewish communities in ancient Rome, a complex labyrinth of more than 60 miles of burial chambers. In the second century the catacombs were only a place of burial, but later Christians gathered in them to celebrate the funeral rites and the worship of their dead. And during the Christian persecutions they were the best shelter and a center of pilgrimage. Discover how they were constructed and symbolism hidden in these deserted tombs, shedding light on some of the secrets of the catacombs still puzzling scholars today.

Épisode 38 - Rites of Death

6 juin 1996

A look at burial customs throughout history. Cultures examined include India, Tibet and ancient Egypt.

Épisode 39 - Lost Castles of England

9 juin 1996

Along with chivalry, romance, and royalty, the image of the great stone castle with lofty towers, a drawbridge, and a deep moat has always been associated with medieval England. Yet, these formidable stone citadels of the Feudal period were not the first castles to populate the English countryside. During the Middle Ages, the dominant fortifications of England's landscape were built using only timber and earth. Although primitive, these large wooden castles built into the soil were strategically constructed to withstand attack by providing those inside with the defensive advantage. What they were not able to withstand, however, were the indomitable effects of the elements and the unforgiving passage of time, which have all but destroyed the castles' legacy. Join Ancient Mysteries® for a journey into England's medieval past to uncover the lost secrets behind these marvels of ancient engineering.

Épisode 40 - Secrets of Delphi

20 juin 1996

“Secrets at Delphi,” the ancient site of a temple to the Greek god Apollo, whose priestess prophesied the fates of mortals. Delphi is located on the southern slope of Mount Parnassus in Greece.

Épisode 41 - The Secret Life of King Ramses II

11 juillet 1996

Hailing the life and the 67-year reign of the ancient Egyptian monarch King Ramses II, who is thought to be the pharaoh mentioned in the book of Exodus. Included: a look at his extensive building program of temples and monuments.

Épisode 42 - The Powerful Gods of Mt. Olympus

11 juillet 1996

An examination of the origins of the 12 Greek gods and goddesses, such as Zeus and Athena, who, according to mythology, ruled from Mount Olympus.

Épisode 1 - Ancient Altered States

5 septembre 1996

If you thought the drug culture peaked in the 1960s, you're only off by a few millennia. In fact, since the beginning of civilization, humans have explored means of altering their consciousness in search of something "greater" than everyday reality. ANCIENT MYSTERIES takes an in-depth look at our pervasive drive to experience something "beyond," and reveals the means by which our ancestors explored their inner world. From experiments with substances at the edge of lethality to mysterious rituals meant to help worshipers leave their bodies behind, ANCIENT ALTERED STATES explores the farthest reaches of this primitive and universal desire. Psychologists and physicians, including Dr. Andrew Weil, offer insight into the physical and mental mechanisms and motivations behind this quest. Historians and spiritualists explore the ancient rituals of cultures worldwide that have sought visions and truth through altered consciousness. And riveting footage illuminates the terrifying, exquisite visions revealed to those who journey beyond the constraints of the conscious mind.

Épisode 2 - Ancient Prophecy

19 septembre 1996

From Central African tribes to American Indians, prophecy has held an esteemed place in various cultures throughout the world. In this revealing program, journey back thousands of years for a riveting look at the role of prophecy throughout the ages. Travel the world to see how different cultures attempted to decipher the secrets of their destinies, and trace the incredible predictions that appear to have come true.

Épisode 3 - Before Their Time: Ancient Technology

Épisode 4 - Hidden Cities of the Etruscans

10 octobre 1996

The ancient Italian civilization of the Etruscans, which flourished in the 6th century B.C. Included is a study of the society's cult of death.

Épisode 5 - Witches

24 octobre 1996 - 5/5

Known varyingly as a sorceress, an enchantress, and a devil's consort, the witch has haunted the human consciousness and captured the imagination for thousands of years. While a general fear of witches seems to be woven deep within the human psyche, witchcraft and magic have been interpreted in different ways by different cultures throughout the ages. Some cultures and religions have deemed the practitioners of witchcraft to be evil, while others harness a more positive perspective on the power of the witch. What exactly are these controversial and mysterious powers? Why were witches hunted down so mercilessly during the European witch trials of the Middle Ages? And what were the actual motivations behind the famous seventeenth-century witch hunt in Salem, Massachusetts? Join Ancient Mysteries® on a quest to find answers to these and many other questions that lay buried deep within the ancient past.

Épisode 6 - Mystical Monuments of Ancient Greece

21 novembre 1996

The glorious temples of Athens's Acropolis bear silent witness to the high point of Ancient Greece's legendary civilization. Built during the reign of Pericles, the most powerful leader in Athenian history, majestic temples such as the Parthenon and the Erechtheum remain marvels of architectural brilliance to this day. Yet what was the purpose of these stunning structures at the heart of the finest city in the ancient world? Were they the centerpieces of a truly civilized society and the symbols of a new form of government known as democracy? Or were they representative of a brutal sect devoted to Athena, goddess of wisdom and war? In this fascinating program, Ancient Mysteries delves into the secret history of Greece's golden age with a behind-the-scenes look at the country's most famous monuments from the point of view of the archeologists dedicated to unearthing these treasures.

Épisode 7 - Sacred Rites and Rituals

19 décembre 1996

Investigating ancient rites and rituals and possible connections to modern-day religions.

Épisode 8 - UFOs: First Encounters

2 janvier 1997

Theories that UFOs visited ancient civilizations. Included: monuments that seem directed at specific stars, and texts that refer to flying objects

Épisode 9 - Tombs of the Gods: The Great Pyramids of Giza

16 janvier 1997

The Great Pyramids of Giza are recognizable throughout the world and are tangible links to powerful secrets from the pre-dynastic days of Ancient Egypt. In this fascinating program from Ancient Mysteries, behold the grandeur of these magnificent pyramids, man-made wonders that have held visitors spellbound for thousands of years. Learn about the complex belief system that enjoined the Egyptians to preserve and protect the bodies of their dead to ensure the fulfillment of resurrection, and follow the journey of the pharaoh's soul to discover how the pyramid served as a threshold to the unknown and a gateway to eternal life. Host Leonard Nimoy travels through the shifting sands of time to the land of the powerful pharaohs, magnificent monuments, and well-preserved mummies in Tombs Of The Gods: Great Pyramids.

Épisode 10 - Secrets of the Aztec Empire

13 février 1997

Present day Mexico City sits atop of what was once a great civilisation, the Aztec Empire. Drawing on newly discovered artifacts, anthropologists can now give us a more in depth picture and shed new light on what life was like for this ancient civilisation. Watch in awe as Ancient Mysteries reveals the Secrets of the Aztec Empire.

Épisode 11 - The Curse of the Hope Diamond

6 mars 1997

It is the largest, most famous, and most valuable gemstone in the world. It has been the plaything of kings and sultans and has decorated the necks of many an heiress and empress. But, could this notorious diamond actually be cursed? According the legend, the 45-carat gem is a piece of a larger stone stolen from the eye of a Hindu idol and later purchased by a French merchant in the 1660s. In its long and troubled journey through time, it is said to have destroyed careers, marriages, and empires by way of its alleged curse. Suicide, madness, bankruptcy, and freak accidents have all been attributed to its great powers. Today, the unique stone sits in the Smithsonian Natural History Museum in Washington, DC. Join us as we explore the bizarre legends and the strange facts behind The Curse Of The Hope Diamond.

Épisode 12 - Private Lives of the Emperors

27 mars 1997

A report on the elaborate homes built by Roman emperors, which were designed to reflect their power.

Épisode 13 - Secrets of the Romanovs

10 avril 1997

Experience the final days of the Romanov dynasty and penetrate the web of intrigue surrounding the murder of the royal family.

Épisode 14 - Legends of the Arabian Nights

20 avril 1997

Few modern authors have not been influenced by THE ARABIAN NIGHTS. But what is the origin of THE ARABIAN NIGHTS stories? Over a thousand years ago, a legend is told about a beautiful young woman who would save her life by telling adventure tales to a murderous sultan for a thousand and one nights. The tales she weaved are set in India, Persia, Egypt, Turkey and China and came to be known as the ARABIAN NIGHTS or A THOUSAND AND ONE NIGHTS. Is there any truth to the stories of Aladdin, Sinbad and Ali Baba? Why are they driven by the presence of genies and magic? Who wrote the tales and why, in the age of STAR WARS, have these stories remained timeless? Journey with us into an era long veiled in mystery as we enter the timeless world of THE ARABIAN NIGHTS.

Épisode 15 - The Fate of the Neandertals

27 avril 1997

More than 70 thousand years ago, a clan of cave dwellers roamed the cliffs of Le Conte in Southwestern France. They were Neandertals, distant cousins to modern man. The caves, among other archaeological sites, have revealed much about Neandertals. But new disoveries have prompted more questions and mysteries. No other prehistoric group has received as much attention as the Neandertals. No other group carries such a weight of scientific and popular misconceptions or has its name associated with savagery, stupidity and animal strength. Fossils records place the last Neandertal on earth 30,000 years ago. Then they vanished. Or did they? There is more to Neandertals than their fossil remains. This hour will explore the Neandertals who, despite new and enticing clues, remain a people of mystery.

Épisode 16 - Human Sacrifice

1 mai 1997

Human blood. In the ancient world, this precious substance was believed to be the ultimate gift that could be offered up to appease the omnipotent gods and goddesses who held the fate of the people in their hands. In this fascinating - yet alarming - documentary, discover the widespread history behind human sacrifice within various cultures throughout the ancient world. Investigate a mysterious European culture that once thrived on ritual murder, and journey to ancient Mexico to uncover the secrets of the Aztec sacrifices. Finally, travel to India to learn about the victims sacrificed to Kali, Hindu goddess of darkness and death. Ancient Mysteries journeys to discover the horrifying secrets behind the ancient practice of human sacrifice, and the shocking reality behind the modern-day sacrificial murders still being carried out by some remote groups in the world today.

Épisode 17 - The Lost City of Pirates

8 mai 1997

Roam the high seas in search of adventure and booty with Blackbeard the pirate and women buccaneers like Annie Boney. Visit a suken city once known as "the wickedest place on earth" and learn the true story of the pirates of Port Royal.

Épisode 18 - Samurai

22 mai 1997

"Samurai" examines feudal Japan's hereditary warrior class and its code of unquestioning loyalty. Included: their painting and poetry; the role of women; their code of honor.

Épisode 19 - Curse of the Goddess Pele

5 juin 1997

Violent volcanic explosions created the Hawaiian Islands. According to ancient belief, Pele the goddess of the volcanoes, dominated that tropical fiery domain. Smoldering with passion and fury, Pele became the most powerful of the Hawaiian gods. Today, she still commands incredible power, reverence and awe among the Hawaiian people. How has Pele's power endured for generations? Was she once a mortal woman? What events would set off her explosive temper? What rituals were performed by the Hawaiian people to appease this most passionate of gods? These are some of the mysteries we will explore, as we search for Pele, goddess of the volcanic flame.

Épisode 20 - Guardian of the Ages: The Great Sphinx

12 juin 1997

It is one of ancient Egypt's most recognizable and enduring icons. Situated on the west bank of the Nile River, this great creature has watched over the Giza Plateau for an untold number of years. Known as the Great Sphinx of Giza, this massive lion of the desert boasts the carved human head of a pharaoh and the body of a recumbent lion. To which great ruler does the Sphinx's massive form pay homage? Who built this enduring statue and where did the inspiration come from? In this fascinating look into the history behind the symbol of the sphinx, experts debate these and many other significant questions. Join Ancient Mysteries for a journey four thousand years into the past to uncover the hidden secrets of Egypt's Guardian Of The Ages: The Great Sphinx.

Épisode 21 - Dragons

26 juin 1997

They appear in countless myths and stories from around the world. Could dragons have actually existed, and could they still remain hidden in some remote corner of the earth?

Épisode 22 - Ancient Rome and its Mysterious Cities

17 juillet 1997

They were fearsome rulers of the ancient world for over a thousand years. Some say their armies were the strongest the world has ever seen. Wherever they went, they conquered. And, wherever they conquered, there sprang another city. As we marvel at the sophistication and beauty of some of our modern cities, we are celebrating a legacy that was literally etched in stone over two thousand years ago by the Romans. ANCIENT ROME AND ITS MYSTERIOUS CITIES explores the hidden treasures of our ancestors as we uncover the secrets of these mysterious ancient cities. In a world of frequent invasions and competition among warring tribes, the cities of the Romans were a stamp of solidity, unifying a multitude of cultures. Across the empire, they provided a secure structure wherein these diverse traditions could flourish, as long as they honored Roman law. Archaeology shows that advanced cultures such as those of the Greeks and the Etruscans preceded the Romans. But they did not survive. Why not? How did the Romans use the wealth of knowledge of these societies and expand upon them? What did they do differently? And, how were they able to keep control of the far reaches of the empire? Explore the answers to these questions. Hear and feel the rhythm of the outrageous and exotic societies of the past...and journey to the heart of civilization in ANCIENT ROME AND ITS MYSTERIOUS CITIES.

Épisode 23 - The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

24 juillet 1997

From the enormous bronze statue of the Colossus of Rhodes to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, this intriguing episode of A&E's "Ancient Mysteries" reveals the history and mysteries behind the ancient world's seven wonders. Period art and contemporary reconstructions help recount the story of these legendary structures of antiquity, including the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the Temple of Artemis, the Statue of Zeus and the Lighthouse at Alexandria.

Épisode 24 - Headhunters of the Amazon

3 juillet 1997

“Headhunters of the Amazon” visits Ecuador, where warriors cut off and shrank the heads of their enemies as a rite of passage.

Épisode 25 - The Black Death

10 juillet 1997

"Black Death" looks at the plague that, beginning in the 6th century, killed millions on three continents.

Épisode 26 - The Curse of the Borgias

31 juillet 1997

"The Curse of the Borgias" looks at the legendary Italian Renaissance political family that yielded two Popes and tales of murder, incest and corruption.

Épisode 27 - Sacred Places

19 juin 1997

Visited: Stonehenge, Easter Island and Jerusalem. Also: Machu Picchu, the site of an ancient Inca city in Peru.

Épisode 1 - Tattooing

7 août 1997

For thousands of years, people of almost every culture have decorated their bodies with elaborate tattoos - but few realize the significance of this ancient practice. Ancient Mysteries goes "beneath-the-skin" in an exhaustive exploration of tattoo artistry. Join Steve Gilbert, editor of the Tattoo History Source Book, as he traces the history of tattooing from the first ritualistic practices - marking rites of passage, celebrating the bravery of warriors, branding slaves - to the booming industry that it has become today. Watch as acclaimed tattoo artists demonstrate their skills for the camera and hear their insight regarding the commitment and meaning of these permanent decorations. From the tropical jungles of New Guinea to the urban jungle of New York, Tattooing illuminates the meaningful cultural contexts that lie behind a modern craze.

Épisode 2 - The Sacred Waters of Lourdes

14 août 1997

It has been called the city of miracles - where the blind are made to see, the deaf to hear, and the lame to walk. Could the waters of Lourdes in fact contain mysterious healing properties? The story began in 1858, in the remote mountain village of Lourdes, France, when a 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous is said to have witnessed a vision of the Virgin Mary. Since then, believers from all over the world have traveled there in hopes of experiencing the alleged healing powers of the sacred waters. For almost 150 years, scholars, doctors, and even key figures within the Catholic church have struggled to separate fact from faith. In this penetrating documentary, interviews with skeptics, as well as those who claim to have been healed by the water's powers, serve to paint a balanced portrait of this most enigmatic phenomenon.

Épisode 3 - The Magic of Alchemy

17 août 1998

Did masters of alchemy possess secret wisdom? What were they really seeking? These are but a few ANCIENT MYSTERIES. Nearly two thousand years ago, a shadowy group called alchemists embarked on a mysterious dangerous quest. In primitive laboratories they risked their lives trying to make gold. They also searched for divine wisdom - and the secret of immortality. Mysteries abound in alchemy's dark history. Was Sir Isaac Newton, one of history's greater minds, driven mad by his secret obsession with alchemy?

Épisode 4 - The Search for the Abominable Snowman

21 août 1997

"The Search for the Abominable Snowman" attempts to determine if the creature, known by such names as Yeti and Temu, is more than a folk tale. Included: interviews with Tibetan monks and Sherpa villagers who claim to have seen the beast. Also: an examination of mysterious hair samples.

Épisode 5 - Quest for the Holy Grail

28 août 1997

It is one of the holiest relics of Christianity and has inspired many a knightly adventure. But does this fabled chalice really exist?

Épisode 6 - Knights Templar

7 septembre 1997

Nine hundred years ago, Muslims fighting Christians were suddenly assaulted by a strange and terrifying force...a legion of sword wielding monks called the Knights Templar. Their fanatical courage struck terror in their enemies; their fabulous wealth made them the most powerful men in Europe; their secret rites inspired rumors of blasphemy. Did the Knights Templar find ancient secrets buried beneath Solomon's Temple? Did they conspire to seize part of Europe for themselves? Join us as we search for answers to these enduring enigmas in the long ago time of the bold and mysterious Knights Templar.

Épisode 7 - Reincarnation

2 novembre 1997

Can the soul transcend death to inhabit another body? Can one person be born again as another? Numerous cultures and religions believe in reincarnation, but is there any evidence to support the claims? Examine popular theories and hear testimony from believers. Many cultures and religions around the world believe in reincarnation. They claim that death is not the end for a soul. It can be born into a new physical body. Many believe that the Dalai Lama is a product of reincarnation. However, beyond belief and faith, is there anything to support the theory? Scholars and theologists examine the issue. Hear multiple claims of reincarnation, like a Colorado housewife who claims to have lived centuries earlier in a land other than America. Find out the roots of the belief. Learn the details of a mid-1800's discovery that sparked worldwide interest in the issue. Delve into Jewish and Christian tradition for their views on the subject. REINCARNATION holds surprises for the staunchest of skeptics.

Épisode 8 - Lost Mummies of the Inca

4 janvier 1998

The Incas held lavish banquets for their mummified chiefs, where corpses were dressed in fine clothes, exquisite jewelry and offer the choicest food and drink. This programme tries to uncover the secrets of the world's most mysterious death cult.

Épisode 9 - Dreamtime of the Aborigines

3 mai 1998

Take a mesmerizing journey into the ancient, enigmatic culture of Australia's Aborigines, the oldest on earth. They are the oldest continual culture on earth. Enshrined in oral traditions stretching back perhaps 100,000 years are secrets which are memorized by initiates but strictly forbidden any outsiders. Their ancient chants and rites may bring fertility to the land, health to the sick and death to their enemies. "Dreamtime Of The Aborigines" is a spellbinding journey into the mysteries of this ancient culture. Join host Leonard Nimoy as he investigates the astonishing philosophy that appears to bind the present, past and future into one and give these people stunning power. Can their doctors perform surgery without entering the body? Do the spirits of their ancestors really guide their steps today? Incredible evidence, revealing interviews and stunning footage of the Aborigines' life in their beautiful, harsh land makes this a memorable inquiry into the myths and realities of one of the world's most enigmatic people.