Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor in China

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2014
Size of heritage: 42,668 ha
- Buffer zone: 189,963 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 108,857°
Latitude: 34,304°

Summary

This property is a 5,000 km section of the extensive Silk Roads network, stretching from Chang’an/Luoyang, the central capital of China in the Han and Tang dynasties, to the Zhetysu region of Central Asia. It took shape between the 2nd century BC and 1st century AD and remained in use until the 16th century, linking multiple civilizations and facilitating far-reaching exchanges of activities in trade, religious beliefs, scientific knowledge, technological innovation, cultural practices and the arts. The thirty-three components included in the routes network include capital cities and palace complexes of various empires and Khan kingdoms, trading settlements, Buddhist cave temples, ancient paths, posthouses, passes, beacon towers, sections of The Great Wall, fortifications, tombs and religious buildings.

Location on Map

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Introduction

The Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in China. This site encompasses a vast network of routes that were historically significant for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between East and West. The corridor stretches from Chang'an, the ancient capital of China, to the Tianshan Mountains, covering a distance of over 5,000 kilometers.

Historical Significance

The Silk Roads played a crucial role in connecting civilizations and fostering trade between Asia, Europe, and Africa. The routes facilitated the exchange of silk, spices, precious metals, and other commodities, leading to the development of prosperous cities and the spread of knowledge and ideas.

During the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), Chang'an served as the eastern terminus of the Silk Roads. It was a cosmopolitan city, attracting merchants, scholars, and travelers from various regions. The city thrived as a center of commerce and cultural exchange, leaving behind a rich architectural and archaeological legacy.

The Tianshan Mountains, on the other hand, acted as a natural barrier and a crucial passage along the Silk Roads. The mountainous region provided a challenging yet strategic route for traders and travelers, who had to navigate through treacherous terrains and harsh climates.

Current State

The Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor is a well-preserved heritage site that showcases the historical significance of the Silk Roads. It comprises numerous archaeological sites, ancient cities, fortifications, and cultural landscapes.

Chang'an, now known as Xi'an, still bears the remnants of its glorious past. The city's most iconic landmark is the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized statues that were buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The city also boasts the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist pagoda dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), and the ancient city walls, which have stood for over 600 years.

The Tianshan Mountains, with their breathtaking natural beauty, offer a unique experience for visitors. The region is home to diverse ecosystems, including alpine meadows, glaciers, and deserts. The Karez System, an ancient underground irrigation system, is another remarkable feature of the corridor. It demonstrates the ingenuity of ancient civilizations in adapting to the challenging environment.

Preservation Efforts

China has made significant efforts to preserve and protect the Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor. The government has implemented strict conservation measures to safeguard the archaeological sites and cultural heritage within the corridor.

Collaboration with international organizations, such as UNESCO, has also played a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting sustainable tourism in the region. The site has been inscribed on the World Heritage List since 2014, ensuring its recognition and protection on a global scale.

Furthermore, ongoing research and excavation projects continue to uncover new insights into the history and significance of the Silk Roads. These discoveries contribute to a deeper understanding of the cultural exchange and economic interactions that shaped the ancient world.