A Journey Through History on the Silk Road
There are two paths in the universe:
The Milky Way in the sky,
The Silk Road on the Earth.”
— Uzbek Proverb
SILK ROAD – THE ROAD OF KNOWLEDGE AND CIVILIZATION
Recently, the Silk Road has become one of the most discussed topics. In the process of globalization, countries are so interconnected with the global market that the idea of a non-global economy has become unimaginable. What keeps the economy alive are the commercial relations and amicable connections between countries. These relations were historically formed through the famous route (system) known as the Silk Road. The importance of the Silk Road comes from its establishment of this system. However, the Silk Road is not just a trade route. It is also a path of knowledge, civilization, and progress. The Silk Road should not only be evaluated as a historical trade route but also in terms of its cultural and civilizational significance. This aspect does not negate the importance of trade in making the Silk Road a thriving path.
For centuries, caravans on the Silk Road carried not only silk but also knowledge and civilization. This route played a significant role in the intellectual and cultural development of the Asian continent.
THE HISTORY OF THE SILK ROAD
Silk, which was first produced in China, began to be exported to other countries over time. The profitability of the silk trade led to the naming of the trade route, which stretched from China to Europe, after the most precious commodity traded on it – silk.
This route became one of brotherhood, tolerance, knowledge, civilization, culture, and spirituality. The history of the Silk Road dates back 3,000 years, and the route from China to Europe has been a corridor where many nations, civilizations, customs, and traditions have met and embraced each other.
THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA
One of the first things that come to mind when mentioning China is the Great Wall. Stretching over hundreds of kilometers, this ancient wall has existed for centuries, still standing and making people ponder its enduring presence. As one of the largest structures of ancient Chinese architecture, the Great Wall was built to protect against invasions by the Hun Empire, according to Chinese sources, in the 9th century. Between 770 and 470 BC, various Chinese tribes living in scattered communities were constantly engaged in struggle and warfare. To protect their cities, towns, and villages, they built high walls around their territories, marking the beginning of the tradition of creating protective walls and “building barriers.
THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA – HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
In history, the Great Wall of China has been referred to by various names such as the “Defensive Wall Between States,” “Long Wall for Defending Against the Huns,” and “Front Wall of the Chinese State.” In 221 BC, Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who unified the scattered small states to form the first unified Chinese empire, began the construction of the wall in the northern part of his state to protect against cavalry invasions. By connecting previously built walls, a long boundary wall was formed. As a result, a massive structure 5,000 km long was constructed. Over the years, the wall was continuously repaired and expanded, and today the Great Wall of China stretches beyond 5,000 km, marking the northern border of ancient China.
During the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644), the wall was further extended and restored, reaching a length of 7,300 km. Nearly a million soldiers were stationed along the border’s nine sections. As China expanded its territory in later years, the Great Wall lost its original strategic function and became a relic within the state’s boundaries.
HISTORICAL MEMORY
The Great Wall was constructed along the mountain ridges, often at the highest points. Its height varies by region, but it is generally about 8 meters high, with a width ranging between 5 to 8 meters. Watchtowers are positioned at regular intervals.
The globally renowned Great Wall attracts millions of visitors. Travelers to China cannot leave without visiting the Wall, and the saying “A hero who has not climbed the Great Wall is not truly a hero” has become a proverb. Today, the Great Wall is no longer just a dividing or boundary wall; it has become a meeting point for different civilizations and peoples speaking diverse languages. Standing through centuries of history, this colossal structure has withstood numerous trials and remained intact. Originally built as a defensive barrier, the Great Wall now teaches valuable lessons to future generations.
When you look at the Great Wall, you might think: “This wall has managed to etch its name into the pages of history and become a magnet attracting millions.” As for its significance, the Great Wall of China, in its present form, will only grow in importance as time passes, particularly in terms of its contribution to education and spiritual progress.
We extend our warm greetings to all our readers from the Silk Road and invite you to a historical journey along the Great Silk Road.
