10 Movies & Shows Like The Crusades (2023)

Description: A historical epic set during the Crusades, featuring grand battles, religious conflict, and political intrigue. The film explores themes of faith, honor, and the clash of civilizations.

Fact: The director's cut of the film is significantly longer and provides a more nuanced portrayal of the characters and events. The film was shot in Morocco and Spain, with elaborate sets recreating medieval Jerusalem.

Description: A gritty portrayal of ancient Rome's political and military struggles, with a focus on the lives of soldiers and politicians. The series shares themes of power, loyalty, and historical upheaval.

Fact: The show's production included a massive outdoor set in Italy, one of the largest ever built for television. It was praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail.

Description: A lavish historical drama about the reign of Henry VIII, featuring court intrigue, religious conflict, and personal drama. The series shares themes of power, faith, and historical transformation.

Fact: The show was filmed in Ireland, using many of the same locations as 'Braveheart'. It starred Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who gained significant acclaim for his portrayal of Henry VIII.

Description: A dramatic series about the infamous Borgia family's rise to power in Renaissance Italy. It explores themes of corruption, ambition, and religious influence, similar to the political machinations of the Crusades.

Fact: The series was filmed in Hungary, with elaborate costumes and sets recreating the opulence of the Vatican. It was created by Neil Jordan, known for his work on 'The Crying Game'.

Description: A historical drama following the adventures of the Venetian explorer in the court of Kublai Khan. It features grand battles, political intrigue, and cultural exchange, much like the Crusades era.

Fact: The series was one of Netflix's most expensive productions at the time. It was filmed in Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Italy, with extensive sets and costumes.

Description: A dramatic portrayal of Norse warriors and their raids across Europe, featuring intense battles, exploration, and cultural clashes. The series delves into the complexities of leadership and destiny.

Fact: The show's creator, Michael Hirst, also wrote the screenplay for the film 'Elizabeth'. Many of the Viking ships used in the series were built using traditional methods.

Description: A time-traveling romance set against the backdrop of 18th-century Scotland, featuring battles, political strife, and cultural clashes. The series blends historical events with personal drama and adventure.

Fact: Based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling book series. The show is known for its detailed costumes and authentic Scottish settings, filmed largely on location in Scotland.

Description: A series set in medieval England, depicting the struggle between Saxons and Vikings. It shares themes of warfare, loyalty, and the quest for power, with a strong focus on historical authenticity.

Fact: Based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' novels. The show's protagonist, Uhtred, is inspired by a real historical figure from the 9th century.

Description: Centered on the Knights Templar, this series explores their military campaigns, internal conflicts, and the mysteries surrounding their order. It highlights themes of faith, betrayal, and historical conspiracy.

Fact: The show features a mix of historical and fictional characters, blending real events with dramatic storytelling. It was partially filmed in the Czech Republic, using authentic medieval locations.

Description: A miniseries set in 12th-century England, revolving around the construction of a cathedral amid political and religious turmoil. It shares themes of ambition, faith, and the struggle for power.

Fact: Based on Ken Follett's bestselling novel. The series was filmed in Hungary and Austria, with detailed sets recreating medieval architecture.