Ancient Mysteries: The Curse of the Borgias

The Borgia family legacy is one filled with tales of treachery, poison, incest, and murder. In this intriguing program, Ancient Mysteries takes a fascinating look at the infamous family at the center of the Italian Renaissance. Originally from Spain, the Borgias were said to have employed every unscrupulous tactic to secure their position in Roman society. Using their wealth and political cunning, the family - headed up by Pope Alexander VI - enjoyed unparalleled influence on the Roman Catholic church, while their unbridled self-interest and scorn for conventional morality contributed to their meteoric rise - and their tragic end. The family left an indelible mark on one of the most notable chapters in European history. But how much of the legacy is fact and how much is legend? Were the Borgias as monstrous as many claimed? Or were they merely victims of their harshest critics? Whatever the truth, and the world may never know, the Borgia legacy continues to inspire fear and awe.

Actor: David McCallum
Actor: Kathleen Turner
Actor: Leonard Nimoy