Global Treasures: Elephanta

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1274

UPC: 883629689296

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

From the Gateway of India, the main landmark of India's metropolis of Mumbai, formerly Bombay, numerous ferry boats embark to Elephanta Island.

The peaceful, mostly wooded island measures around five square kilometres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The exact origin of the cave temples of Elephanta Island is unknown, but it is believed that the main cave dates back to the 8th century. The first thing that catches the eye are several mighty columns that stand outside the temple's forty-metre-long hall.

The magnificent sculptures and artistic stonemasonry of the rock temples are among the highlights of early Hindu art, and it is the fascinating interplay of natural beauty and mysterious ruins that creates the unique charm of these unusual religious sanctuaries.