Planet Egypt - Episode 1: Birth of the Empire (History Documentary) For many decades, archaeological excavations and scientific expeditions throughout the entire region have been attempting to solve the mystery of what held the Empire by the Nile together for so long. The four-part series Planet Egypt delves deep into crucial periods in the history of the Pharaohs. The documentary depicts the founding of the Empire under King Narmer, the rise of Egypt to a world power under Thutmose III, the revolution during the reign of Akhenaten and the enormous surge in construction activity under Pharaoh Ramses the Great. By means of dramatic re-enactments and lavish computer animations, Terra-X resurrects the world of Ancient Egypt. Entire cities such as Hierakonpolis, Thebes and Amarna are reconstructed in 3-D animations and brought back to life. Each episode sheds light on one of the vital foundation stones at the base of this extraordinary civilisation. EPISODE 1: BIRTH OF THE EMPIRE The history of Egypt is one of unparalleled success. But how was the Kingdom of Egypt united in the first place? To solve the mystery of how Egypt was born, we follow archaeologists as they examine the very beginning of the rule of the Pharaohs. It's the time now known as "Dynasty Zero" -- Egypt's pre-dynastic period -- a previously little known episode that sets Egypt on course for some of the greatest achievements in the history of mankind. The film discovers that, through both war and peace, it was the mysterious King Narmer who laid the foundations for the continuing rule of the Pharaohs -- a success story lasting more than 3000 years.