Snapchat’s AR Studio Paris partnered with historian Bettany Hughes OBE and SandStone Global Productions to launch “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World,” a three-part docuseries that premiered August 2 on Channel 5 in the UK. The collaboration brings ancient monuments to life through augmented reality technology accessible via QR codes displayed during broadcasts.

Keshet International (KI), which co-developed the series with SandStone Global, announced sales to 20 additional territories ahead of the world premiere, bringing the total to 25 markets. New distribution deals include Movistar Plus+ in Spain and Andorra, COSMOTE TV in Greece, ERR in Estonia, Ananey in Israel, and 14 territories across the CIS.

Interactive AR Experience

The “at-home” AR experience, developed in partnership with Snapchat’s AR Studio Paris, allows viewers worldwide to virtually explore reconstructions of ancient monuments, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and the Statue of Zeus at Olympia.

“We are thrilled to be boarding more buyers to this fantastic series while also making the innovative ‘at-home’ augmented reality technology available to clients who want it,” Kelly Wright, KI’s MD of Distribution, said in a statement. “The on-screen QR codes will allow viewers around the world to explore, learn, and connect with these famous historic sites from the comfort of their own homes.”

In the series, Professor Hughes travels across Greece, Egypt, and Turkey, following the footsteps of ancient travelers who created the original “bucket list” of Seven Wonders 2,200 years ago. The production features state-of-the-art digital reconstructions that allow Hughes to interact with CGI replicas at the original locations.

“The past is a living place, a place that’s relevant to all of us,” said Hughes. “Using this meticulously researched augmented reality allows viewers at home to explore right inside these ancient wonders. It’s an immersive experience that we hope will bring the past to life for millions!”

Cultural AR Expertise

This project builds on Snap’s growing portfolio of cultural AR collaborations, including the recent “Dansez Versailles” experience launched at the Palace of Versailles in July. That partnership transformed specific garden locations into interactive performance spaces showcasing baroque dances from Louis XIV’s court.

With 93.7 million monthly active users across the EU and nearly 27 million in France alone, Snap continues to expand its cultural and educational AR offerings. The company reports that interactive AR features typically drive higher engagement rates, similar to the sports content that generates over 25 million minutes of daily viewership globally on its Spotlight feature.

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