History Extra podcast The Silk Road: everything you wanted to know
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Jan 21, 2024 Explore the origins and significance of the Silk Road, the varied experiences of traveling the route, and the benefits and drawbacks of this ancient trade network. Delve into the heyday of the Silk Road in the 13th and 14th centuries, and learn about its long-term impact and current popularity.
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Silk Road: A Network of Routes
- The Silk Road wasn't a single road but a network of routes connecting East and West.
- It facilitated cultural exchange and trade, existing in various forms throughout history.
Origin of the Name
- The term "Silk Road" wasn't coined until 1877 by Ferdinand von Richthofen.
- He originally called it "Seidenstraßen", referring to the well-traveled paths between Europe and East Asia.
Major Cities on the Silk Road
- Key cities along the Silk Road include Venice, Istanbul, Damascus, Baghdad, and Xi'an.
- From Xi'an, the route branched to other important cities like Beijing and Guangzhou.