National And International Recommendations
What is it about the Middle Ages that keeps storytellers coming back? Vikings, castles, rebellions, royals, conquests, or battles? There are hundreds of shows and movies set during that time, and we've picked 45 of the most interesting ones (globally). Don't worry; it's all spoiler-free.
Vikings (2013)
Vikings, set in 793 AD, is all about the life of legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok. The series explores raids on Anglo-Saxon England and tense political alliances. The intricately recreated ships, inspired by true archaeological finds, vividly bring the Viking Age to life.
The Last Kingdom (2015)
Focused on the Saxon-Danish conflict of the 9th century, The Last Kingdom follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg. Historical battles like the Battle of Ethandun (878 AD) within the movie will show you Alfred the Great's ambition to unify England. The costumes and locations are stunningly authentic.
The Last Kingdom, Carnival Film & Television
Marco Polo (2014)
This canceled TV show is set in the 13th century, and is all about Marco Polo's journeys into Kublai Khan's Mongol Empire. The show explores grand Mongolian culture, deadly political intrigue, and Marco's role as an outsider in court. What steals the spotlight, though, is the elaborate recreations of Silk Road.
Netflix, Marco Polo (2014-2016)
Medici (2016)
This drama uncovers Florence's golden Renaissance under the Medici family's rule. Spanning the 15th century, it highlights their patronage of revolutionary art and architecture, such as Brunelleschi's Duomo. Interestingly, alliances made in the show gave a glimpse into the birth of modern banking.
MEDICI: The Final Season | Official Trailer by Jacob Dudman
Disenchantment (2018)
Matt Groening's satirical fantasy set in the medieval kingdom of Dreamland playfully pokes fun at Middle Ages tropes. The show features jousting knights, drunken witches, absurd quests, and witty modern humor blended with medieval culture. Expect chaos, magic, and more chaos!
Netflix, Disenchantment (2018-2023)
Da Vinci's Demons (2013)
Da Vinci's Demons merges fact with fiction by focusing on the untold life of a young Leonardo da Vinci. It showcases his genius and secret societies. Innovation was another one of his strong suits, so historical nods like his design of a flying machine ground the series in reality.
Da Vinci's Demons | Finale Preview | STARZ by STARZ
Rise Of Empires: Ottoman (2020)
Using innovative trebuchets and massive cannons, Sultan Mehmed II's conquest forever changed world history. This docudrama centers on the Ottoman siege of Constantinople in 1453. The show vividly portrays this event by combining expert commentary and cinematic reenactments.
Rise of Empires: Ottoman Netflix Tv Series Trailer (English) by turkishdrama.com
Blackadder (1983)
This classic comedy hilariously rewrites history through the misadventures of Edmund Blackadder. The medieval-themed first season (set during the Wars of the Roses) parodies knighthood, castle politics, betrayal, and medieval superstitions. Its sharp wit and tongue-in-cheek humor are unforgettable.
The Hollow Crown (2012)
This series adapts Shakespeare's history plays, set, again, during England's medieval Wars of the Roses. Lavish costumes and gripping performances from a star cast bring Richard II and Henry V to life. The show is the definition of "drama" with all its political intrigue and epic battles.
BBC, The Hollow Crown (2012–2016)
Los Borgia (2006)
We've got some international recs for you as well. The infamous Borgia family dominated the papacy in 15th-century Italy. And this series highlights their scandals and assassinations fueled by unchecked ambition. Their patronage of Renaissance art juxtaposes with their power struggles—a tale of beauty and blood.
Los Borgia (2006) DEUTSCH TRAILER by Unseen Trailers
Mystery!: Cadfael (1994)
This crime series stars Derek Jacobi, a monk turned detective. Brother Cadfael (Jacobi's character) uses herbal remedies and logic to solve murders in Shrewsbury Abbey in 12th-century England. Based on Ellis Peters' novels, it showcases medieval monastic life and its moral dilemmas.
Cadfael S04E01 - The Holy Thief / full episode by MurderMysteries
Camelot (1967)
This reimagining of the Arthurian legend mixes mythology with historical flair. In a dark and gritty 5th-century Britain, Camelot examines the rise of King Arthur, Merlin's guidance, Guinevere's challenges, and her affair with Lancelot. It's a raw take on a familiar legend.
Knighting of Sir Lancelot (1967 Camelot) by gold_queen_dragon
Diriliş: Ertuğrul (2014)
This Turkish drama follows the 13th-century Kayi tribe leader Ertugrul, father of Osman I and the founder of the Ottoman Empire. The show's stunning depiction of nomadic life, warrior culture, and Islamic traditions has earned it global acclaim and 7.9/10 on IMDb.
Resurrection: Ertuğrul Episode 1 by tabii watch
Robin Hood (2010)
There are several Robin Hood movies, but Ridley Scott's version takes a grounded approach to the legendary outlaw. Set in 12th-century England, it explores Robin's origins amidst political corruption and Norman oppression. The detailed recreation of medieval siege tactics adds a gritty realism to the classic story.
How To Train Your Dragon (2010)
This animated film from DreamWorks explores dragon lore and Norse mythology. Hiccup's bond with Toothless challenges his community's warrior culture and conveys themes of coexistence. The trilogy dreams up a richly imagined world—all from Viking villages to dragon races.
DreamWorks, How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
The Name Of The Rose (1986)
Based on Umberto Eco's novel, this film investigates a murder in a 14th-century monastery. It captures medieval fears of heresy, the power of the Inquisition, and the intellectual debates of the time. Its gothic architecture and cloistered mystery make for an underrated masterpiece.
Isabel (2012)
Queen Isabella I of Castile's reign was pivotal to Spain's unification. She was a remarkable ruler who takes center stage in this historical drama. It highlights her marriage to Ferdinand II, but more than that, it's about the funding of Columbus's voyages and her deft political maneuvering.
Diagonal TV, Isabel (2011–2014)
El Cid (2020)
This Spanish epic explores the life of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, a knight in 11th-century Spain. El Cid's battles against the Moors revered him as a hero of the Reconquista. And his loyalty to King Alfonso and knightly virtues are worthy of praise.
THE LEGEND OF EL CID Trailer (2020) Jaime Lorente, Drama, Action Series by ONE Media Coverage
The White Queen (2013)
The Cousins' War by Philippa Gregory inspired this 2013 series. It focuses on the role women played in the long fight for the throne in England. Three women—Elizabeth Woodville, Margaret Beaufort, and Anne Neville—worked behind the scenes for power.
Cathedral Of The Sea (2018)
Construction of Barcelona's Santa Maria del Mar church during the Dark Ages, is what Cathedral Of The Sea revolves around. It's based on Ildefonso Falcones's book of the same name, intertwining themes of faith, feudal cruelty, social mobility, and medieval Catalonia's struggles.
Cathedral of the Sea - Season 1 (2018) HD Trailer by qualitylover
Heirs To The Land (2022)
As a continuation of Cathedral of the Sea, this one follows Hugo, a carpenter's son who is forced to traverse social upheavals and church corruption around him. The reconstruction of medieval city life and maritime trade makes it a great period drama.
Heirs To The Land 2022 #netflix 🔥🔥 by Morooco nomad
Six Flying Dragons (2015)
This Korean epic dramatizes the foundation of the Joseon Dynasty and interweaves personal rivalries and political intrigue along with accurate historical events. Lavish costumes and debates over Confucian ideals tell us about Korea from the 14th century in a grand light.
Uyanis: Büyük Selcuklu (2020)
Uyanis: Büyük Selcuklu (The Great Seljuks: Guardians of Justice) is a Turkish series that goes into the Seljuk Empire's history in the 11th century. The story explores Islamic medieval history of the Seljuks's golden age and wars with the Byzantines.
Obalarına Geri Döndüler - Uyanış: Büyük Selçuklu 28. Bölüm @trt1 by The Great Seljuks
Ivanhoe (1952)
This classic film adapts Walter Scott's novel, which blends romance and chivalry in 12th-century England. Robert Taylor, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Fontaine, and George Sanders paint a thrilling picture of medieval life, where a noble knight is on a quest to rescue King Richard and put him back on the throne.
Crossbow (1987)
Set in the Swiss Alps, this series brings William Tell's legendary defiance of tyranny to life. With themes of freedom and rebellion, it explores medieval weaponry and mountain culture. The iconic crossbow itself becomes a symbol of resistance.
Crossbow S01 E01 - "The Banquet" | Full Episode by Popcornflix
Braveheart (1995)
Mel Gibson's Braveheart dramatizes the life of 13th-century Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace. Featuring historic battles like Stirling Bridge, it's a tale of love, betrayal, tyranny, and independence. Its kilts may be inaccurate, but Randall Wallace's passion still earned it 8.3 on IMDb.
Braveheart, Paramount Pictures
Floris (1969)
This Dutch series follows a medieval knight battling enemies with wit and a sword. Set in the Low Countries during the Hundred Years' War, it mixes heroism with a touch of humor. The acting in Floris is exceptional from both Rutger Hauer and his friend Jos Bergman.
Eric Koch for Anefo, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Arthur Of The Britons (1972)
This 1970s British series presents King Arthur as a post-Roman tribal leader. Without fantasy elements, it highlights Celtic tribal politics, alliances, and the struggle for unity in Britain. Several viewers think of it as an integral part of their childhood.
Classic TV Theme: Arthur of the Britons (Bernstein) byDavid Gideon
Knightfall (2017)
Knightfall chronicles the fall of the Knights Templar in the 14th century. It explores the group's mysterious rituals and clashes with King Philip IV of France. Their search for the Holy Grail adds an intriguing layer that haunts every corner of this tale.
A+E Studios, Knightfall (2017-2019)
The Witcher (2019)
The Geralt of Rivia is a monster hunter navigating political unrest, destiny, moral ambiguity, medieval superstition, alchemy, and swordplay in The Witcher. The series, set in a medieval-inspired world, blends rich folklore with complex characters. It's truly a dark fantasy come to life.
Al Hajjaj (2003)
The Arabic historical drama chronicles the life of Al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf, a controversial Umayyad governor of the 7th century. Known for his administrative reforms and military campaigns, he's a polarizing figure in Islamic history and the series successfully portrays early Islamic governance.
SAID IBN JUBEYR VS AL HAJJAJ by Yusuf Mutazila
Beowulf (2007)
This CGI-heavy adaptation retells the legendary Old English epic. Beowulf captures themes of heroism, betrayal, and mortality—all with a backdrop of a harsh, mythical Scandinavian terrain and Grendel's haunting presence. The film's eerie atmosphere echoes medieval oral storytelling traditions.
The Mists Of Avalon (2001)
The Mists Of Avalon is a retelling of Arthurian legend focused on the women behind the throne. Morgaine, Guinevere, and Viviane journey through power, mysticism, love, and patriarchy in a magical, medieval world. Its feminist perspective offers a fresh take on Camelot.
Merlin Dies - "The Mists of Avalon" - Anjelica Huston by Veronique Laurent
Excalibur (1981)
Arthurian legends in TV shows and movies are never-ending. Merlin's guidance and the rise and fall of Camelot are at the heart of this movie. It's a visual treat that captures the mysticism of the times, the sword Excalibur, medieval armor, pagan rituals, and a haunting soundtrack.
Orion Pictures, Excalibur (1981)
Tristan And Isolde (2006)
This romantic epic revisits the Celtic legend of star-crossed lovers Tristan and Isolde. Set amidst 6th-century tribal warfare, the film explores loyalty, betrayal, and forbidden love in a misty landscape. Even though it has a 5.9 rating, the poetic tone is timelessly tragic.
Tristan und Isolde (2006) | Trailer (German) feat. Henry Cavill & James Franco by Trailer Hub
The Green Knight (2021)
One of the well-known Arthurian legends, “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight,” is the poem that inspired this movie. Gawain is King Arthur’s nephew, who sets out on a mission to fight the Green Knight in the Green Chapel. Dev Patel as Gawain received critical acclaim for his amazing performance.
BRON Studios, The Green Knight (2021)
The Thief Of Bagdad (1940)
Though more fantasy than history, this classic film reflects the opulence and adventure of medieval Islamic lore. Flying carpets, Arabian palaces, and larger-than-life heroes pay homage to One Thousand and One Nights. Its visual effects were groundbreaking for its time.
The Thief of Bagdad (1940), London Films
Alfred The Great (1969)
Set in 9th-century England, this film portrays Alfred's fight against Viking invasions and his role in uniting Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. It blends military strategy, Christian piety, royal ambition, and a heart to protect one's land. It's an insightful look at the pivotal medieval ruler.
Alfred the Great: Michael York's greatest performance by John Slade
The 13th Warrior (1999)
Inspired by Beowulf, The 13th Warrior is about an Arab traveler joining Viking warriors against a terrifying enemy. It vividly depicts Norse combat techniques and shipbuilding, based on the 1976 book Eaters of the Dead. It's a classic trope of a stranger in a strange land.
Touchstone Pictures, The 13th Warrior (1999)
The Pillars Of The Earth (2010)
Another adaptation of Ken Follett's novel focuses on the construction of a cathedral in 12th-century England, with a whopping 8/10 rating. Themes of ambition, corruption, religious fervor, and other medieval struggles intertwine as characters go through feudal life.
Muse Entertainment, The Pillars of the Earth (2010)
The Lion In Winter (2003)
Set during Christmas 1183, this tale of King Henry II and his scheming family is rife with betrayal and power struggles. Featuring Eleanor of Aquitaine (played by none other than Katherine Hepburn), the film's sharp dialogue is as thrilling as its drama.
The Lion In Winter,Embassy Pictures
The Court Jester (1955)
This medieval comedy starring Danny Kaye offers a humorous spin on castle life. With secret plots, mistaken identities, and sword fights, it's a parody of classic medieval tropes. The "vessel with the pestle" scene is pure comedic genius.
The Court Jester (1955) - A hypnotized Danny Kaye romances Angela Lansbury by Classic Film & TV Cafe
The Seventh Seal (1957)
This Swedish masterpiece explores mortality and faith during the Black Death. A knight playing chess with Death on a desolate beach has become iconic in pop culture. Its haunting medieval environment and existential themes offer a profound reflection on human existence.
PSvensk Filmindustri, The Seventh Seal (1957)
Mongol: The Rise Of Genghis Khan (2007)
This historical epic chronicles Genghis Khan's rise in the 12th century—from his youth as a slave to his unification of Mongol tribes. It also captures the harsh realities of nomadic life as the sweeping steppe vistas complement the story's raw intensity.
Mongol: The Rise of Genghis Khan (2007) Trailer by Bygone Attractions
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