Season 1 1999

Andrew Graham-Dixon embarks on a quest to find the origins of the Renaissance. His journey takes him to Macedonia, the Low Countries and Venice, revealing a complex tapestry of influences along the way - and leading him to conclude that Western civilisation owes a huge debt to the legacy of the East.

Andrew Graham-Dixon examines Florence's claim to be the cradle of the Renaissance.

Andrew Graham-Dixon explores the 15th century princely courts of Italy.

Andrew Graham-Dixon examines the millennial anxiety of 1499.

Andrew Graham-Dixon visits Venice, home to great painters of light and colour.

Andrew Graham-Dixon concludes the series by asking how the Renaissance came to an end.