Streaming service and podcast network History Hit has released its latest original documentary, Ancient Adventures: Libya, a 50-minute exploration of one of the world’s least-seen archaeological frontiers. The platform said it is “the first international documentary team in 15 years to gain access and film the stunning ancient Greek and Roman sites of Cyrenaica, Libya, following years of civil war and instability”.
In the film, History Hit founder and creative director Dan Snow (pictured) travels into eastern Libya, beginning in Benghazi, to uncover a region rich with historical treasures yet largely inaccessible to the international community. Viewers are also taken to a long-lost port being rediscovered on the northern Mediterranean coast, and then venture to the city of Cyrene, a Graeco-Roman metropolis founded over 2500 years ago.
To portray Cyrene as it appeared over 2000 years ago, the production also utilises game footage from Assassin’s Creed Origins – an example of innovation meeting history. History Hit worked with Ubisoft to incorporate the unique visual reconstruction.
“Libya is one of the most extraordinary places I’ve ever filmed,” said Snow. “Its history is staggering – layer upon layer of ancient civilisations, remarkably preserved yet rarely seen. To walk through sites that have been almost untouched for years, and to meet the archaeologists bringing these stories back to life, was a privilege. I’m thrilled we can finally share this forgotten corner of the ancient world with viewers.”
Bill Locke, executive producer at History Hit, added: “This film represents not only a major production achievement but a rare opportunity to document history that has been out of reach for far too long, and shed light on some of the great work being done in Libya to preserve and record ancient sites. Our team worked closely with dedicated local and international partners to capture Libya’s immense archaeological wealth.”
Ancient Adventures: Libya is available to stream on History Hit, alongside the platform’s library of documentaries, interviews, and podcasts. The film was made in collaboration with Ulster University, University of Benghazi, World Monuments Fund, the British Council Cultural Protection Fund and the Department of Antiquities of Libya
