SYNOPSIS

Uncovering the Lost Roman Origins of the Greatest Legend of All Time—Where History and Myth Collide

For centuries, the figure of King Arthur has been shrouded in legend. But what if his origins were not medieval, but rooted in the era of the Roman Empire? This 60-minute documentary, produced by SD Cinematografica and Picasso Film, two production companies renowned for their high-quality historical reenactments, unveils a groundbreaking perspective on the true origins of the myth. Unlike any other production on King Arthur, KING ARTHUR: THE UNTOLD ROMAN STORY shifts the focus away from the Middle Ages and back to the Roman world, revealing the historical foundation of the legend. At the heart of this narrative is Lucius Artorius Castus, a Roman officer of the 2nd century AD who commanded Sarmatian auxiliary troops in Britain. 

This contingent of 5,500 warriors from the steppes, renowned for their heavily armored cavalry and formidable battle tactics, left a lasting imprint on local culture, ultimately shaping the Arthurian myth. The documentary explores the connection between the Sarmatians and the Arthurian legend, uncovering striking parallels between their traditions and the most iconic elements of the Arthurian cycle. The Sword in the Stone echoes the Sarmatian sacred sword cult, while the Round Table reflects the nomadic assemblies of the steppe warriors. Excalibur and the Lady of the Lake share links with Sarmatian shamanic rituals, and the Dragon Banner, the emblem of Sarmatian cavalry, would later evolve into the symbol of Wales. Through immersive historical reenactments, expert interviews with leading historians and archaeologists, and cutting-edge CGI and visual reconstructions, this documentary takes viewers on a captivating journey between history and myth. King Arthur is a global icon, but he has never been told like this. This is a historical discovery that changes everything.