Examination of the centuries-old history and current popularity of tattoos. Looks at the practice of tattooing in ancient times when slaves, warriors, and even potential marriage partners were marked for life.

How and why did Italians build a great metropolis on a lagoon? We offer surprising answers.                                                            

A look at China's amazing Forbidden City, which was built in the 15th century by over one million laborers and was the home of 24 emperors. Its 8,000 rooms contain palaces, temples, libraries, theaters, and living quarters for thousands.

In ancient days, all roads led to Rome. But once there, they led underground--to a mystery. Carved into the bedrock, there lies a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers constructed for the dead. Pagans, Christians, and Jews were entombed here for 300 years. But then the city of the dead was sealed off and forgotten for ten centuries.

Archaeological director Baldasarre Conticello takes viewers on a tour of Pompeii's ruins, and visits Herculaneum, which was destroyed by Vesuvius at the same time.

Amazing story of Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon's quest to find the "waters of immortality" in the early 16th century. Examines the origins of the water mythology that led medieval Spaniards to believe that magical waters could be found in India.

A look at the fabulous blue diamond that has brought beauty to its owners--and perhaps misery as well. Some believe the diamond carries a curse that has destroyed careers, lives, marriages, and even empires.

In ancient times, alchemists practiced the speculative art of transmuting the baser metals into gold. Though they never achieved the goal, they often made a lot of silver off gullible patrons.