Filthy Cities

Filthy Cities is a documentary series that explores the hidden history of sanitation and public health in some of the world's most iconic urban environments. Each episode delves into the challenges and innovations of managing waste, water, and disease in cities like London, Paris, New York, and Rome across different historical periods. It highlights the often-unseen efforts that transformed these metropolises into more livable spaces. The series examines the societal impact of disease and the revolutionary engineering that followed.

Filthy Cities was generally well-received by critics for its informative and engaging approach to a often-overlooked aspect of urban history. Reviewers praised its ability to make complex historical and scientific topics accessible and interesting to a broad audience. The series was noted for its detailed research and compelling narrative, offering a unique perspective on the development of modern cities.

• Praised for its educational value and fascinating look at urban development.

• Lauded for making a potentially 'unpleasant' topic engaging and accessible.

• Appreciated for highlighting the unsung heroes of public health and infrastructure.

Google audience: While specific Google user ratings are not readily available, audience discussions often highlight the series' ability to shed light on the crucial, yet often ignored, infrastructure that underpins urban life. Viewers generally express surprise and interest in the historical challenges of sanitation.

The series often uses historical maps, animation, and CGI reconstructions to bring to life the squalor and the eventual improvements in urban sanitation, making the historical context visually immersive.