10 Foreign Historical Fiction TV Shows for Fans of Game of Thrones and Outlander

For fans of shows like Game of Thrones and Outlander, this can be an especially difficult time. The long wait for these two shows—which both traffic in intrigue and inspiration taken from the history books—to make their return feels like an eternity. As you await the upcoming seasons, we advise you to tread unknown waters, and bravely cross the oceans to discover some excellent foreign TV series. From Europe to Asia, from Brazil to South Africa, here are 10 shows—some old, some new—to track down and start watching now.
1. Magnificent Century (2011-2014)
Star TV
This addictive historical fiction soap opera has taken Eastern Europe by storm, almost as much as its protagonist, Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent, did in the 1500s. The show is based on the story of a Ukranian woman, Roxelana, who gets captured and taken to serve as a slave in Topkapi Palace in Constantinople. She’s forced to join the Sultan’s Harem, but once there, sets out to conquer more than his heart – and eventually displaces his wife, and takes her place next to the Sultan as his Sultana.
2. Versailles (2015-)
Canal + (French) and Ovation (US)
For those who love films shot in France but hate subtitles, you’re in luck! This Franco-Canadian production chose to film the show in English in order to make it internationally accessible. Set in the court of Louis XIV, the series focuses on the original intent for Versailles Palace—a gilded cage for King Louis to manage his courtiers. Versailles premiered last year in France and Canada, and is coming to the US’ Ovation Channel on October 1, 2016.
3. The Last Kingdom (2015-)
BBC Two
Based on the historical fiction series, The Saxon Stories, BBC’s The Last Kingdom brings to life a time before there was an England. Set in the 9th century, the show follows the various kingdoms on the British Isles and a young boy, Uhtred, who is born a Saxon but raised as a Dane. The plot itself isn’t based on the history of any single individual, but rather, on the birth of a nation.
4. Vasilissa Amalia (1975-1976)