7 surprises of the Silk Route

The Silk Route has connected the East with the West for over 2,000 years, acting as a catalyst in the development of China, India, the Middle East and Europe. It wasn’t just goods such as silk and spices that were traded along the route; ideas, religions, and even diseases were passed on, shaping many countries’ identities.

Today, you can travel along a section of the ancient route from central China to Uzbekistan. It’s a journey that takes you through mountains and deserts, immerses you in a variety of cultures and lets you explore the region’s rich history. Part of the thrill is also about encountering the unexpected: below are a few surprises we’ve discovered along the way.

Xian’s Terracotta Warriors are still being uncovered

One of China’s best-known…