The Ancient World in Living Color: ARTE’s ‘The Colour of Antiquity’ Comes to Malta

Imagine walking through the ancient streets of Rome, the vibrant reds and golds of the Colosseum’s marble still glowing under the Mediterranean sun. Or picture the vivid blues and greens of Pompeii’s frescoes, preserved for centuries under volcanic ash. Now, thanks to ARTE, you can experience these colors and more, right here in Malta.

ARTE: Bringing History to Life

ARTE, the European cultural channel, has produced a stunning documentary series titled ‘The Colour of Antiquity’. This four-part series takes us on a journey through the ancient world, from the Roman Empire to the Byzantine era, revealing the vibrant colors that once adorned our ancestors’ cities, art, and daily lives.

Malta, with its rich history and ancient sites, is the perfect stage for this visual feast. The series will be broadcast locally on TVM, giving Maltese audiences a unique opportunity to explore their own heritage through a new lens.

Malta’s Ancient Colors: A Local Perspective

Malta’s ancient sites, like the megalithic temples of Mnajdra and Ġgantija, may not have been as colorful as their Roman counterparts, but they too tell a story of human ingenuity and creativity. Local archaeologist Dr. Anthony Pace explains, “While our prehistoric structures were primarily built from stone, the decorative elements, like the spiral carvings at Ġgantija, would have been painted in vibrant hues.”

Fast forward to the medieval period, and Malta’s streets were a riot of color. Historian Dr. Mario Buhagiar points to the 15th-century chronicler Giannone’s descriptions of Malta’s cities: “He speaks of houses painted in red, yellow, and blue, and streets lined with colorful awnings.”

Watching ‘The Colour of Antiquity’ in Malta

So, how can you tune in to ‘The Colour of Antiquity’? The series will air on TVM in the coming weeks, with specific dates and times to be announced. For the best viewing experience, gather your friends and family, make some popcorn, and get ready to be transported back in time.

After the broadcast, why not discuss your favorite moments and theories with fellow history enthusiasts on Hot Malta’s forums? And if you’re feeling inspired, consider visiting some of Malta’s ancient sites to see the colors of our past for yourself.

As Dr. Pace puts it, “This series is a reminder that history isn’t just about dates and facts. It’s about people, their cultures, and their creativity. And it’s about time we started seeing it in color.”

So, mark your calendars, tell your friends, and get ready to see the ancient world like never before. Because history, as ‘The Colour of Antiquity’ shows us, was never black and white.