Ancient Discoveries

Seasons

2003

Australia

7.6

TV-PG

The remarkable story of Ancient inventions.

Episode List

S1 • E1

Ancient Computer?

Discover the advancement of time-keeping techniques, from the classic sundial to Ctesibius' use of constant water flow and primitive gear mechanisms, leading up to what is known as the Antikythera mechanism.

S1 • E2

Galen, Doctor to the Gladiators

An exploration into Galen, a Greek physician in the Roman Empire who pioneered numerous medical techniques, honing his craft on wounded gladiators and soldiers. Evidence exists from a human skull that brain surgery was performed.

S1 • E3

Heron of Alexandria

Any first look into the field of robotics begins with Heron of Alexandria, a clever machinist who used principles of air compression, wind power, and basic mechanics to swindle religious worshipers and entertain the masses at the theater.