7 Best Medieval TV Shows Filled with Action

The medieval period, more commonly known as the Middle Ages, lasted from the 5th to the late 15th centuries. It was full of upheaval, discovery, and kingdoms. The medieval period started when the Western Roman Empire fell, transitioning into the Renaissance and the Age of Discovery. If you enjoy learning more about this period or watching it come to life on the screen, check out these seven best medieval TV shows.

7. Rise of Empires: Ottoman (2020)

Starting our list of the best medieval TV shows is Rise of Empires: Ottoman. The series follows the rise of the Ottoman Empire led by Sultan Mehmed II. While the first season focuses on the siege of Constantinople in 1453, the second season explores Mehmed’s friendship and later war with the ruler of Wallachia, Vlad Dracula. Mehmed’s actions would shape the course of history in his region for centuries.

–IMDb score: 8.0

6. The Tudors (2007-2010)

Sixth on our list of the best medieval TV shows is The Tudors. The episodes are set in England during the early years of King Henry VIII’s reign from 1509 to 1547. It reveals the scandalous life of the king and his pursuit of a male heir, which changes the idea of marriage, the church, and the world. Notable historical characters include Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Sir Thomas More, Charles Brandon, and Cardinal Wolsey.

–IMDb score: 8.1

5. The Hollow Crown (2012-2016)

Next on our list of the best medieval TV shows is The Hollow Crown. While it may be based upon Shakespeare’s history plays (Richard II, Henry IV: Parts I and II, and Henry V), there is something to be taken from every episode. The entire series chronicles a section in British history from the end of the 14th century to the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.

–IMDb score: 8.2

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4. Isabel (2011-2014)

Fourth on our list of the best medieval TV shows is Isabel, taking viewers to Spain. The series is a biography about Isabella, Queen of Castile, and her rise to power in Spain to become one of the country’s greatest rulers. The first season is Isabel’s childhood and her marriage to Ferdinand of Aragon, the second her crowning and the conquest of Granada leading to Columbus’ journey, and finally, in the third, the marriages and deaths of her children.

–IMDb score: 8.3

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3. Robin of Sherwood (1984-1986)

Rounding out the top three best medieval TV shows is Robin of Sherwood, also called Robin Hood. While the series is mostly based on legend and has fantasy elements, there are prominent pieces of the medieval period too. The series follows Robin of Loxley, who gathers a band of comrades and fights against their Norman dictators to provide justice for those less fortunate.

–IMDb score: 8.4

2. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)

Second on our list of the best medieval TV shows is The Last Kingdom. Set in 872, many of the small kingdoms in present-day England have fallen to the invading Danes (Vikings) except for Wessex. In the center of the action is Uhtred, born to a Saxon nobleman but raised by the Danes as their own. As battle seems inevitable, Uhtred must choose between his birthright and the people who raised him.

–IMDb score: 8.5

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1. Vikings (2013-2022)

Last but not least on our list of best medieval TV shows is Vikings, one of the most popular shows set in the Middle Ages. The main character is Ragnar Lothbrok, the greatest hero of his age, who dreams of being the King of the Viking tribes. Ragnar embodies the Norse traditions of devotion and fearlessness, and will let nothing get in his way on the path to being King.