Secrets of Highclere Castle

"Secrets of Highclere Castle" is an engaging and eye-opening television documentary from PBS released in 2013. The documentary takes audiences inside one of England's grandest country houses - Highclere Castle, a stunning edifice with a history as rich and fascinating as its appearance is beautiful and iconic.

The castle, more globally recognized as the setting for the critically acclaimed period drama, "Downton Abbey," is practically a character in itself. With the charm of its centuries-old architecture and its well-preserved antiquities, it provides a rich backdrop that has captivated TV audiences across the world. "Secrets of Highclere Castle" explores this striking landmark in great depth, and it is this in-depth exploration that sets the documentary apart.

The one-hour long documentary peels back the layers of the castle's history, beyond its modern claim to fame as a beloved television setting. It takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into the past, recounting its conception, design, and construction in the mid-19th century by Sir Charles Barry, who is also known for his work on the Houses of Parliament. The documentary also delves into its fascinating legacy and historical significance as the residence of the Carnarvon family. This family lineage is not without its fascinating characters and stories, including the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who, along with archaeologist Howard Carter, discovered the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

"Secrets of Highclere Castle" showcases how life was lived in Victorian times, diving strongly into the hierarchical structure of the era, both upstairs and downstairs. It intriguingly depicts how the aristocratic family entertained their guests while also examining the rigorous and often grueling lifestyles of the servants who worked in the basement. The show combines expert interviews and archival footage to paint a complete picture of the kind of existence led within Highclere’s storied walls.

Importantly, the documentary illuminates the more subdued aspects of the castle's history. Detailing its use as a hospital during World War I, it manages to humanize the grandiose building, portraying how it comforted and sheltered wounded soldiers. Not only does the show delve into the past, but it also keeps one foot in the present, highlighting the challenges faced by the castle today in a changing world and the efforts to preserve it.

Part of the allure of the documentary is the intricate detail with which the castle's rooms, gardens, and artifacts are showcased. From the stunning saloon with its 50-foot high vaulted ceiling and the lush, expansive gardens, serving as a testament to the passionate gardening skills of Almina, the 5th Countess of Carnarvon, to the opulent bedrooms and the extensive library holding over 5,000 books, every image screams grandeur while whispering centuries of history.

Moreover, spectators get to hear from the castle's current inhabitants, the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. They talk candidly about the challenges and joys of maintaining such a significant and historic estate. The documentary shines a unique light on the actual business of running an estate as vast and onerous as Highclere, an operation that requires round-the-clock dedication.

Throughout the television show, a rich tapestry is woven of life within this iconic home. The narration delivers a melodic narration that truly brings this castle's story to life. Each revelation is presented with all the thrill and suspense of a finely crafted tale, pulling the spectator into each storyline, turning a mere documentary into a genuinely engrossing experience that typifies historical storytelling at its most impressive.

In conclusion, "Secrets of Highclere Castle" is more than a behind-the-scenes look at a famous castle. It is a portal to a grand and opulent past, an exploration of societal hierarchies, an insight into the struggles between old and new ways in the context of preserving heritage properties, and an intimate look at the lives of those that reside and work in such an incredible setting. Whether you’re attracted to the allure of the architecture, the human stories within its walls, or its role as the setting for "Downton Abbey," "Secrets of Highclere Castle" delivers with an enlightening and captivating look into an iconic landmark.