- Title: Secrets Of The Dead: Who Burnt Rome?
- Date: 10th December 2001
- Summary: Documentary exploring what caused the burning of Rome in 64AD. Using forensic tests,archaeological evidence and texts it investigates whether the fire was accident or arson,and if the latter,the likeliest perpetrators. The Emperor Nero has always been considered the main culprit,although there was always argument over this,with some saying it was just a natural disaster. Professor Gerhard Baudy from the University of Konstanz has recently put forward a new theory,arguing that the true culprits were the early Christian poor,who lived in poverty in the city,and who set out to wreak revenge on the Empire. Baudy also points to the Book of Revelations,wherein Christians are ordered to take up arms against 'the seven-headed whore of Babylon',meaning Rome.
- Description:In 64 AD,Rome was the world's greatest city. But on July 19th a fire broke out which reduced it to rubble. Using a range of forensic tests,scientists set out to get to the bottom of how the fire started. Was it an accident? Was it Nero,wanting to found the new city in his own name? Or,was it a group of early Christians disillusioned by Rome's despotic power? Contains reconstruction and re-enactment footage.
- Broadcaster:Channel 4
- Collection: Channel 4
- Genre:Documentary and Factual
- Producer:3Bm Television Ltd.
- Programme Episode:Episode 1
- Transmission Date:10/12/2001
- Rights:On Request
- Decade: 2000s