The trade routes linking imperial Rome with remote China, known collectively as the Silk Road were once the greatest on earth. Riches of silk, gold and ivory travelled along it, as well as revolutionary new ideas and technologies. It became intertwined in the histories of the countries that lie along its path. The Silk Road has undoubtedly had a lasting influence on civilisations and cultures today. For a brief history see the expedition brief.

A detailed history of the Silk Roads, written by Nick Rowan, is also available for download.

Selected historical references, with which the history of the Silk Roads was written, are available here.

Timeline

Please click here to view the full size version of the historical timeline.

The historical timeline is also available in PDF format.

Trade Networks

Please click here to view the full size version of the trade networks map.

"Any fool can make history, but it takes a genius to write it"

OSCAR WILDE