Caligula’s Hidden Legacy

Caligula is remembered as one of the most infamous emperors in Roman history, a name synonymous with excess and cruelty. His brief four-year reign was marked by extravagance, brutality, and a descent into tyranny. Yet behind this grim reputation lies a hidden legacy that challenges the traditional view.

New archaeological discoveries are prompting historians to reconsider this controversial ruler. The remains of his floating palaces beneath Lake Nemi, the construction of two major aqueducts, and, most recently in 2024, the gates to his imperial garden in central Rome reveal a surprising talent for monumental architecture.

What drove Caligula to pursue such ambitious projects? Why did he order the transport of a colossal Egyptian obelisk to the heart of Rome for his circus, a feat requiring immense precision and power? These questions suggest a deeper complexity behind the chaos.

Through expert analysis and immersive 3D modelling, this two-part collection explores Caligula’s architectural achievements. Each documentary retraces the design and construction of these forgotten wonders, revealing a ruler not solely defined by madness, but also by vision and bold ambition.