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Ancient Superstructures: New Docuseries Explores Iconic Landmarks

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 3:10 GMT by Variety
      Locales: SPAIN, GERMANY

Barcelona, Spain - February 24th, 2026 - ZDFstudios is poised to launch a captivating new docuseries, 'Ancient Superstructures,' promising a deep dive into the engineering marvels and compelling histories of the world's most iconic landmarks. The series, spearheaded by ZDFstudios and in partnership with Cornelia Flick's Flick Film Company, will blend state-of-the-art CGI reconstruction with insightful expert interviews, creating a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating experience for a global audience.

The inaugural episode of 'Ancient Superstructures' will focus on Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, the breathtaking basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi. Construction began in 1882, and remarkably, the structure remains under construction even today - a testament to Gaudi's ambitious vision and the sheer complexity of the undertaking. The series aims to unravel the secrets of this ongoing project, exploring the challenges faced by generations of architects and engineers striving to realize Gaudi's masterpiece.

'We are incredibly excited about this project,' stated Eva von Zahnler, head of unscripted at ZDFstudios. 'The combination of history, architecture, and engineering appeals to a very broad audience.' This sentiment highlights the series' strategic focus on accessibility and widespread appeal, moving beyond niche historical documentaries to reach viewers fascinated by both the aesthetic beauty and the technical ingenuity of architectural wonders.

But 'Ancient Superstructures' isn't simply about showcasing finished monuments; it's about deconstructing them, revealing the intricate processes and innovations that allowed them to be built in the first place. The series will delve into the materials used, the construction techniques employed (often pushing the boundaries of what was possible at the time), and the socio-political context surrounding their creation. For the Sagrada Familia, this means exploring Gaudi's unique approach to structural design, heavily inspired by natural forms and utilizing innovative techniques like ruled surfaces and catenary arches. It will address the challenges presented by continuing the construction based on incomplete plans, a task undertaken by architects and artisans for over a century.

The producers envision 'Ancient Superstructures' as a format adaptable to countless locations and monuments worldwide. While the Sagrada Familia provides a compelling starting point - a building steeped in history, religious significance, and ongoing construction - the potential for future episodes is vast. Possible subjects could include the Roman Colosseum, the Great Pyramid of Giza, Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat, the Hagia Sophia, or even more modern marvels like the Golden Gate Bridge or the Burj Khalifa. Each landmark offers a unique story of human ambition, engineering prowess, and cultural impact.

Cornelia Flick's Flick Film Company brings significant experience to the project, having previously produced acclaimed docuseries like 'Wild Spaces.' This suggests a commitment to high-quality visual storytelling and a nuanced approach to documentary filmmaking. The partnership between ZDFstudios and Flick Film Company represents a synergy of established broadcasting expertise and creative production capabilities.

The use of CGI reconstruction is central to the series' appeal. Rather than relying solely on static images or historical accounts, 'Ancient Superstructures' will bring these landmarks to life, showcasing their construction phases and revealing details often hidden from modern observers. Viewers will witness how materials were sourced, how structures were assembled, and how the buildings evolved over time. This immersive approach will provide a uniquely engaging and informative experience.

Beyond the technical aspects, the series also promises to explore the human stories behind these landmarks. Who were the architects, engineers, and laborers who dedicated their lives to these projects? What were their motivations, their challenges, and their triumphs? 'Ancient Superstructures' aims to paint a complete picture, blending historical accuracy with compelling human narratives.

The series' potential to become a cornerstone of ZDFstudios' global unscripted programming slate is significant. With an increasing appetite for high-quality documentaries that combine visual spectacle with intellectual depth, 'Ancient Superstructures' is well-positioned to capture the attention of audiences worldwide. The combination of a universally appealing subject matter, cutting-edge technology, and a strong production team makes this a project to watch in the evolving landscape of documentary television.