What Are The Silk Roads?
The Silk Roads were a group of trade routes that connected China and Europe from 300 B.C. to 1500 A.D. Over 8,000 kilometers of road extended from Asia to the Mediterranean Sea. These routes traversed both land and sea, and ran in all directions. Many routes sought the highly prized silk from China. During this time, silk was a precious commodity valued by men and women worldwide because of its rarity, visual beauty, and unique tactile quality. Material goods were not the only things exchanged on the Silk Roads. Religious beliefs, medical practices, general knowledge, and cultural customs were conveyed in all directions along the Silk Roads. They represent even greater riches for world culture. This exhibition presents books and artifacts of geography, culture, history, archeology, trade, and religion found along the Silk Roads in various historical periods.
