
Civilisations: Rise and Fall
- 2025
- Returning Series
- Documentary
- ~59m / ep
- 1 season
- 4.8/10
Four mighty civilisations - Rome, Egypt, Japan's Samurai and the Aztecs. Their legends remain - now priceless artefacts reveal what led them to fall into the echoes of history.
Latest: Series 1 · 2025
View all seasonsWhat caused the demise of the greatest civilisations of the ancient world?
E1. Rome
Nov 24, 2025 · 59m
A weak emperor. A divided empire. Barbarians at the gate. Does this perfect storm mean the end of ancient Rome?
E2. Egypt
Dec 1, 2025 · 59m
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?
E3. Aztecs
Dec 8, 2025 · 59m
The Aztecs battle to save their civilisation from Spanish invaders – but is the real threat from the enemy within?
E4. Japan
Dec 15, 2025 · 59m
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?






















