Quick Summary
Historians Dan Snow and Dr Kate Lister reveal what... – a vivid documentary that immerses viewers in the daily life of ancient Pompeii, showing exactly how the world’s best‑preserved Roman city would have felt to its inhabitants.
About This Program
Programme Overview
Historians Dan Snow and Dr Kate Lister reveal what it would have really been like to live in Pompeii – the world’s best‑preserved Roman city is a compelling documentary episode broadcast on 5SELECT. The programme brings together two respected British historians – Dan Snow, known for his engaging storytelling, and Dr Kate Lister, an expert archaeologist specialising in Roman urban life – to reconstruct the daily experience of Pompeii’s inhabitants before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
What to Expect
The episode combines on‑site filming in the ancient ruins with vivid visualisations, allowing viewers to step inside the bustling streets, markets, and homes of Pompeii. Dan Snow and Dr Lister guide the audience through the city’s architecture, social customs, and the practical challenges of Roman life, drawing on the latest archaeological evidence. Viewers will gain insight into everything from food preparation and family routines to the city’s sophisticated water and heating systems, all presented in a clear, accessible style that balances scholarly rigour with entertaining narrative.
Why Watch
This episode is ideal for UK audiences who enjoy history, archaeology, and immersive storytelling. It offers a rare opportunity to see the world’s most intact Roman city through the eyes of two experts who translate complex research into relatable, human stories. Whether you are a long‑time fan of Dan Snow’s television work or a newcomer to Roman history, the programme promises an informative yet captivating glimpse into a lost world, making it a standout addition to 5SELECT’s documentary slate.
Production Details
Presented as a single episode within the documentary genre, the programme maintains a high production standard typical of British television, with expert commentary, on‑location footage, and carefully crafted reconstructions. It is scheduled for viewers seeking both educational content and engaging visual experience, reinforcing 5SELECT’s reputation for delivering quality historical programming.
Pompeii: Life in the City with Dan Snow broadcasts on 5SELECT at 9:00pm, Wednesday, 5 November 2025. (Subtitles)