Alexandria: Discovering a Lost Empire

Plot Summary

From its beginning in 331 BC when it was founded by Alexander the Great, the city of Alexandria has played a leading role on the stage of history. Alexandria was at the crossroads of the ancient world, and became its cultural and intellectual capital. But little of this ancient splendor has survived; its secrets lay buried beneath a modern metropolis - until now. Cleopatra's Alexandria follows the marine archeology team of the Egyptian Supreme Council for Antiquities, organized by Ibrahim Darwich and French archeologist Franck Goddio, as they shine their lights into one of the most significant discoveries ever - the love nest of the world's most powerful lovers, Antony and Cleopatra. Just a few yards offshore in less than twenty feet of water, they locate a forest of giant granite columns and massive blocks inscribed in hieroglyphics indicating the ruins of the Royal quarters of the ruling Ptolemies, and relics of Cleopatra's palace. Join this new breed of archeologists as they use underwater diving equipment, satellite technology, and the Greek Geographer Strabos ancient book to piece together a fascinating picture of the great ancient city where Alexander the Great was buried, where Julius Caesar lived and loved, and where Marc Antony and Cleopatra met their fate. Computer graphics and models recreate the legendary Pharos Lighthouse, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world; as well as the Great Library and Museum complex where the world's leading scholars, including Euclid, Archimedes and Eratosthenes honed their theories. Filled with unparalleled images, Cleopatra's Alexandria reveals long hidden secrets about a city shrouded in mystery and legend, and provides a special glimpse into the lives of some of history's most extraordinary people.