Below are sites about the historical network of interlinking trade routes that ran across the Afro-Eurasian landmass that connected East, South, and Western Asia with the Mediterranean and European world, as well as parts of North and East Africa. |
| The Silk Road
Sponsored by the University of California, Irvine, this site provides information on the history, culture, and development of the Silk Road, the ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean Sea, from early times to the present day. It discusses the rise and decline of the Silk Road as well as the impact of the Mongols and other foreign influences. Includes photos and a bibliography. Created and maintained by a China enthusiast (and research scientist). The Silk Road Foundation Web site offers a fascinating introduction to the history and culture of the people and places along the ancient Silk Road which includes Inner and Central Asia. In addition to information about the lectures, courses, and community events that the Foundation sponsors, this site includes a variety of articles, bibliographies, and images related to Silk Road topics. Also included are sections devoted to Xinjiang and Dunhuang studies, a historical chronology (still under construction) with links to additional information (e.g. history of silk), and a list of other interesting Silk Road links. Sponsored by the Silk Road Project, an organization founded by cellist Yo-Yo Ma, this site is dedicated to the arts and takes its inspiration from the historic Silk Road's tradition of cross-cultural exchange. The site offers a brief description of the Silk Road as well as maps of trading routes, countries, and languages of the Silk Road. Sponsored by Asia Society, this site contains lesson plans for teachers but also articles for students on topics such as "Silk Road: Spreading Ideas and Innovations"; "Belief Systems Along the Silk Roads"; "Monks and Merchants"; and "Music of the Silk Roads." Silk Road Study Group — San Jose State University Sponsored by San Jose State University, this Art History department site covers the history, culture, religion, and civilization of the Silk Road. Includes maps. The Silk Road — Stanford University Sponsored by Stanford University, this site contains maps, a timeline, and the music associated with the various cultures along the Silk Road. Designed as a virtual lab, the site invites the viewer to click on an image for a close-up and further information. Sponsored by the University of Washington, this site describes cities and architecture along the Silk Road, and offers a wide selection of interactive maps, a virtual art exhibit, a description of Eurasian geography, and more. The Northern Silk Road — John Carroll University Sponsored by John Carroll University, this site explores the history, religion, trade and cave temples of the Silk Road. |