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ReligionGlobal issues

The Da Vinci Code - Myth or Truth?

March 23, 2026

Dan Brown's novel "The Da Vinci Code” is one of the century’s most successful thrillers worldwide. But how much truth is behind the claims made in the book - and what is pure fiction?

https://p.dw.com/p/58RdB
Close-up of an antique metal cipher lock with ornate engravings and rotating letter rings, symbolizing cryptography and secret codes
Image: Kwanza

The novel "The Da Vinci Code” by American author Dan Brown has sold around 80 million copies since its publication in 2003.

Digital 3D gallery with floating image frames displaying historical documents and film scenes, representing modern visual archive design.
Image: Kwanza

The film adaptation starring Tom Hanks in the lead role was also a global success. Thematically, the thriller moves between art, mysticism, religion, and conspiracy theories. 

Wooden cross on a leather cord resting on an intricately decorated book, symbolizing religion, spirituality, and historical manuscripts.
Image: Kwanza

But the theories presented in both the book and the film adaptation also drew criticism, especially from the Catholic Church. Some religious groups even called for a boycott. 

This documentary delves deep into the history behind the novel's most controversial claims. 

Historical sketches and handwritten notes on aged paper, including a detailed portrait drawing, representing art history and archival research.
Image: Kwanza

Could a secret bloodline linked to Jesus have survived for centuries, hidden by powerful forces? Did Leonardo encode these secrets in his famous painting "The Last Supper,” and other works? 

Still from "The Da Vinci Code - Myth or Truth?"
Image: Kwanza

With the help of leading experts in art history, religious studies, and medieval conspiracy theories, as well as insights from the 2006 film adaptation, the documentary unravels fact and fiction. The truth, it seems, might be more astonishing than fiction.

 

Broadcasting Hours:

DW English

TUE 31.03.2026 – 01:15 UTC
TUE 31.03.2026 – 04:15 UTC
TUE 31.03.2026 – 10:15 UTC
WED 01.04.2026 – 09:15 UTC
WED 01.04.2026 – 14:15 UTC
WED 01.04.2026 – 21:15 UTC
THU 02.04.2026 – 07:15 UTC
THU 02.04.2026 – 12:15 UTC
SAT 04.04.2026 – 08:15 UTC
SUN 05.04.2026 – 13:15 UTC

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