In 1966, BBC Television launched its most ambitious documentary series to date.
Distinguished art historian Lord Clarke has been commissioned to write and present an epic examination of Western European culture in which he defines key stages in its development.
Civilization: Lord Clarke’s Personal Viewpoint will run over two years, with filming taking place at more than 100 locations in 13 countries. The lavish series was hailed as a masterpiece when it premiered in 1969.
From the fall of the Roman Empire to the Industrial Revolution and beyond, Clarke’s riveting narrative is accompanied by stunning color photographs of Europe’s greatest landmarks.
This “history of ideas marked by art and music” remains the benchmark for the many shows it inspired.
Civilization was one of the first British color documentary series commissioned by BBC2 under David Attenborough’s tenure.
