MUMBAI: With international eyes turned towards Beijing as the city gears up to host China's first Olympic Games, BBC Worldwide will take audiences on an in-depth tour of the Chinese capital and its people with a new series A History of Beijing.

This regional co-production, with Beijing TV and the Media Development Authority of Singapore, marks the first such collaboration for BBC Worldwide’s Global Channels business since its launch in 2006.

A History of Beijing showcases the rich history of the city taking audiences on a fascinating journey behind its growth - from its nomadic beginnings, to its iconic dynasties and today's modern, thriving metropolis. Many of the ancient city's greatest historical moments are recreated through stunning reconstructions.

A special three-part version of the series will premiere first and exclusively on BBC Knowledge across Asia in August 2008. It will also be broadcast on BBC Knowledge in Poland and in some European territories on BBC Prime.

The TV trade also got a first glimpse of the highly anticipated series at the BBC Showcase in Brighton, UK from 24 to 27 February.

BBC Global Channels Asia-Pacific SVP and GM Christine Leo-McKerrow says, "Producing with Asian partners content that has relevance for regional and global audiences has been our intent since introducing the BBC-branded channels to this part of the world.

"With the BBC being one of the world’s largest and most renowned producers of documentary programming, it is a natural progression for us to extend this expertise through local productions, and with local partners, such as Beijing TV."

"This series comes at a highly opportune time when there is a massive interest in China, and in particular, Beijing. Through this series, audiences can find a deeper understanding of Beijing and its people before the world descends on the ancient city in August," adds Leo-McKerrow.

BBC Knowledge celebrated its global launch in Singapore last July. Since then the channel has also launched in Hong Kong and Poland.