Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic and exotic cities in the world. It straddles the Bosphorus River, and its skyline is dotted with domes and minarets. In this romantic metropolis, east meets west, and the past collides with the present.

The sprawling, continent spanning streets of Istanbul throb with history. The city was – at one time or another - the capital city of three of the world's most powerful empires: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Where crusaders and janissaries once marched, the city’s 11 million inhabitants now go about their daily lives.

But as Istanbul’s modern residents wander between the mosques, bazaars and grand Islamic buildings, many of them are unaware that history also lies beneath their very feet. In this engaging programme, Eric Geller reveals the remnants of fallen civilisations which lie beneath Istanbul.

In 21st century Turkey, taxis drive over parts of Constantine's Lost Great Palace, while children play on cobblestone streets concealing a massive Byzantine dungeon. Meanwhile, a high school sits on a third century wall leading to the bowels of a 100,000 seat ancient Roman Hippodrome.

Eric also delves into the basements of old Ottoman homes which lead to subterranean tunnels and secret cisterns Geller leaves the buzz of the city streets behind and follows the pull of the past. Teamed with leading archaeologists and experts, we peel back the layers of the past to reveal a hidden history that has not seen the light of day for many years.