Art Traffickers: Treasures Stolen from the Tombs

THE GODDESS OF MORGANTINA - A riveting documentary series that pulls back the curtain on the daring excavations and high‑stakes thefts of ancient masterpieces, told through candid interviews and vivid studio reconstructions. Each episode of this Sky Arts programme offers UK viewers a quick at‑a‑glance look at the drama and intrigue behind the art world, a perfect programme highlight for British TV, UK television guides and entertainment lovers.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW THE GODDESS OF MORGANTINA is a landmark documentary series that delves into the thrilling world of archaeology, art theft, and the relentless pursuit of cultural heritage. Produced for British TV, the programme follows the true‑to‑life adventures of the excavators who uncovered the iconic marble statue and the shadowy figures who attempted to steal it. With a blend of on‑location interviews, archival footage and meticulously crafted studio reconstructions, the series offers a cinematic experience that feels part drama, part investigative report, and wholly compelling for UK viewers who love high‑quality entertainment. WHAT TO EXPECT Each episode delivers an in‑depth review of a pivotal moment in the statue’s modern history – from the first dig at Morgantina in Sicily, through the illicit black‑market network that coveted the masterpiece, to the daring police operations that secured its return to Italy. Viewers are treated to candid conversations with the archaeologists, law‑enforcement officials and even former thieves, all juxtaposed with vivid re‑enactments that bring the tension of the chase to life. The narrative is anchored by expert commentary from leading art historians, ensuring that the series is both educational and gripping, with full details that satisfy the curiosity of any documentary enthusiast. KEY FEATURES The series boasts an all‑star cast of real‑life protagonists, including celebrated Italian archaeologist Dr. Maria Russo and the charismatic UK‑based art recovery specialist James Whitaker. Production values are top‑tier, featuring high‑definition on‑site filming in Sicily, state‑of‑the‑art visual effects for the studio reconstructions, and an original score that heightens the drama without overwhelming the factual content. Unique selling points include never‑before‑seen footage from the original excavation, exclusive access to police dossiers, and a narrative structure that weaves together the thrill of a drama with the rigour of a documentary, making it a standout addition to any television guide. WHY WATCH For discerning British TV audiences, THE GODDESS OF MORGANTINA offers more than just another episode of historical curiosity – it is a comprehensive guide to the complex interplay between heritage, crime and international cooperation. The series appeals to fans of both drama and documentary, delivering suspenseful storytelling while educating viewers about the importance of protecting cultural artefacts. UK viewers will appreciate the series’ relevance to current debates on repatriation, its celebration of archaeological achievement, and its ability to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Sky Arts PROGRAMMING CONTEXT Positioned within the Sky Arts programming slate, this series complements the channel’s tradition of delivering world‑class documentary entertainment alongside its flagship dramas. It fits naturally into the schedule alongside other acclaimed series such as “TIME TEAM” and “THE GREAT ART HUNT”, offering a fresh perspective that blends investigative journalism with cinematic storytelling. By adding THE GODDESS OF MORGANTINA to the lineup, Sky Arts reinforces its reputation for quality British TV that both informs and captivates, ensuring that UK viewers have a compelling reason to tune in each week.