Camera crews fly high to get views like this one of Santorini showing the sweeping arc of the volcanic caldera, a feature in the film "Greece: Secrets of the Past" which premiers Friday in the Rangos Omnimax Theater at the Carnegie Science Center.

PITTSBURGH — Cutting-edge computer imaging and ancient Greece collide in "Greece: Secrets of the Past," an archeological journey that sets out to uncover the secrets of the birthplace of Western civilization. The new IMAX film premieres Friday in the Rangos Omnimax Theater at the Carnegie Science Center, One Allegheny Ave., North Side.

In this tale, a Greek archeologist uncovers his culture's past as it was during the Bronze and Golden ages. The film's narrator, actress Nia Vardalos, adds a contemporary edge to this expedition back in time.

The legacies left behind by the ancient Greek civilization are visible today. Many of the things people enjoy today — democracy, the Olympics, theater and modern medicine — echo the life that once was lived in the islands.

Thanks to digital creations, things such as the majesty of the Parthenon and the tragic volcanic eruption that destroyed Santorini in 1646 B.C. are brought back to life.

Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, Greece was destined to draw upon the numerous civilizations passing through its central location.

During the Bronze Age, Greece was a haven for new ideas and the development of democracy. The Golden Age witnessed the continued growth and development of Greek culture and the establishment of traditions that still are in place centuries later.

The science center is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays; closed holidays. Call 412-237-3400 or visit the Web site, www.carnegiesciencecenter.org for more information and show times.

<br></br><br></br><br></br>

<br></br><br></br><br></br>