About the Work
This episode brings us to the southern and eastern fringes of the Aegean Sea, where lie some of Greece’s largest islands. These islands seem remote today, but once they stood at the center of human innovation. Many of the values of Greek and western civilization were first born and nurtured here. Crete, Samos, Chios, Rhodes and the Dodecanese. Places of spellbinding beauty and priceless heritage.
Symi Island in the Dodecanese is a magnet for jet setters and celebrities and also the location where on May 8th, 1945 the Nazis surrendered to the Allies, marking the end of World War 2 in Greece. Moving on to Kos, the episode explores the Asclepeion, an ancient medical school and birthplace of the Hippocratic Oath. Close by is the tranquil island of Nisyros, that could erupt anytime into chaos and destruction.
Largest of all the islands is Crete, home to the ancient Minoan civilization. The Minoan capital Knossos was a major center of trade, and we reveal its labyrinthine ruins. No surprise that this is where the dramatic legend of the Minotaur and the labyrinth originated over 3,000 years ago. Crete’s history since then has been no less dramatic, right up to the invasion by German paratroopers during World War 2.
Crete is also famous for its stunning gorges and pristine beaches, among them Matala beach. Then there’s Elafonisi beach with its pink sands, and the turquoise Lagoon of Balos. Most renowned of all is Starvos Beach where the episode reaches its conclusion.
Director: Stephen Rooke | Production Company: Tile Films | Composer: Giles Packham