Movies and Shows Similar to ‘The Cathedral’

Description: A historical mystery set in a medieval monastery, exploring themes of religion, power, and intellectual pursuit. The atmospheric setting and intricate plot mirror the dark, contemplative tone of the reference.

Fact: Based on Umberto Eco's bestselling novel, the film was shot in an actual 13th-century monastery in Germany. The script was co-written by the author himself.

Description: Though set in antiquity, this series shares a fascination with how religious institutions intersect with political power, featuring elaborate rituals and the manipulation of sacred symbols for temporal gain.

Fact: The production built the largest standing set in Europe at the time, recreating parts of ancient Rome. Many plotlines are based on real historical events from classical sources.

Description: A lavish portrayal of Henry VIII's reign, particularly focusing on the religious upheaval of the English Reformation and its dramatic consequences for both church and state.

Fact: The series was filmed in Ireland using many authentic Tudor locations. Costume designers created over 1,500 historically inspired outfits for the production.

Description: This series explores the corrupt intersection of religion and politics during the Renaissance, featuring lavish period detail and complex power struggles within the Catholic Church hierarchy.

Fact: The production used over 300 authentic Renaissance-era costumes. Many scenes were filmed in the actual Palazzo Apostolico where the historical Borgias lived.

Description: While set in the East, this series shares a fascination with cultural exchange, the meeting of different belief systems, and the political uses of religion in medieval courts.

Fact: The production built one of the largest standing sets in television history for Kublai Khan's palace. Many scenes feature dialogue in period-accurate Mongolian.

Description: A gritty exploration of Norse culture and its encounters with Christianity, featuring intense character studies against a backdrop of religious and cultural transformation.

Fact: The series popularized the use of Old Norse language in television. Many scenes were filmed at the same Irish locations used in 'Braveheart'.

Description: A cerebral take on Tudor politics that examines the religious revolution through intimate character drama and subtle power plays within sacred and secular institutions.

Fact: The production used natural candlelight for interior scenes to achieve historical authenticity. It's based on Hilary Mantel's Booker Prize-winning novels.

Description: Set during the Viking invasions of England, this series examines the clash of cultures and religions, with a strong focus on how belief systems shape political realities and personal identities.

Fact: The show's battle scenes used historically accurate Viking combat techniques. Many locations were filmed in Hungary, standing in for 9th-century England.

Description: Focusing on the Knights Templar, this series delves into medieval religious orders, their secret rituals, and the political machinations surrounding holy relics and sacred spaces.

Fact: The production consulted with medieval historians to accurately recreate Templar ceremonies. Many scenes were filmed in Prague's historic landmarks.

Description: A sweeping historical drama centered around the construction of a cathedral, delving into the political and religious conflicts of 12th-century England. The grand scale and focus on architectural ambition create strong thematic parallels.

Fact: The miniseries was filmed in Hungary and Austria, with the cathedral set being one of the largest ever built for television. It's based on Ken Follett's internationally acclaimed novel.