Samira Ahmed

Persia, the world's first empire, has a complex past. In this fascinating series, journalist Samira Ahmed visits historical and cultural sites across Iran that few westerners have ever seen. Focusing on the rich artistic legacy of the region, she looks at literature, painting and ancient structures to relay a tale of power and ultimate destruction. How much did this history influence modern Iran?

In Roman-occupied ancient Egypt, the corrupt administration of the governor sparks a revolt led by Cleopatra's son, El Kabir.