How did that influence the architecture and culture of the region?
Fredrik Hiebert: People often imagine the long distance trade across Asia (that we know as the “Silk Road”) as driven simply by the markets of Rome and China—with little involvement in between. Archaeology in places such as western China, central Asia, and in particular, Afghanistan, however, shows that this is not so. Here at the heart of the trade routes, vibrant markets and towns existed both in Roman and medieval times. Goods and ideas passed from city to city across Afghanistan creating a wealthy society [that was] unexpected until archaeologists found the remains of these sites. Greek, Roman, Siberian (Scythian), Indian, and Chinese influences can be seen in both the local art and architecture. For instance, a Greek influence is seen in the sculpture and architecture at Ai Khanum in northern Afghanistan. At Begram, Roman, Indian, and Chinese trade goods were discovered in a 2000-year-old warehouse. These objects were likely awaiting transit to markets in the east and west, and no
