Rise of Empires: Ottoman

Netflix Documentary Series • 2020

Lars Brownworth served as historical consultant and on-screen expert for this acclaimed Netflix documentary series, providing expert commentary across six episodes on the 1453 siege of Constantinople.

The series masterfully combines dramatic reenactments with expert analysis to tell the story of Sultan Mehmed II's conquest of Constantinople, one of history's most pivotal moments. The fall of the Byzantine capital marked the end of the Middle Ages and the rise of the Ottoman Empire as a dominant world power. Through his on-screen appearances and behind-the-scenes consultation, Lars provided crucial historical context about Byzantine defenses, Ottoman military strategies, and the cultural significance of Constantinople's fall. His expertise helped ensure the series maintained historical accuracy while delivering compelling storytelling. The series explores the personal ambitions of Mehmed II, the desperate defense led by Constantine XI, and the technological innovations that made the siege possible, including the massive cannon that breached Constantinople's legendary walls.