Silk Road Trade Network

Caravans of camels traveled along the Silk Road routes.

The Silk Road was a network of Asian trade routes.

Silk, produced mostly in China, named the trade network.

Han dynasty expanded into Central Asia around 114 BCE.

Ruins of ancient Dunhuang watchtower in Gansu desert.

Ancient Roman glass cup found in Eastern Han tomb.

Northern route brought spices, nuts, and glass to China.

Southern route passed through Karakoram mountains to Merv.

Caravans traded silk and porcelain westward along the Silk Road.

Maritime Silk Road linked Asia, Arabia, Africa, and Europe.

Travelers faced bandits, rough terrain, and relied on middlemen.

Statue of Buddha giving sermon from Sarnath in Berlin museum.

Buddhist art flourished along the Silk Road routes.

Interior of a historic caravanserai with dome ceiling.

Modern projects revive Silk Road routes across Eurasia today.