While the origins of human civilisation can be traced back centuries, it was a common occurrence for individual civilisations to exist in complete ignorance of other similar civilisations or have no method of communication with them. In such a context, one can only marvel at the utility of what later became known as the Silk Road. The roots of the Silk Route can be traced back to ancient China where a lucrative trade of silk developed. As the inhabitants sought to venture out and increase their business, so came into being the Silk Road, where silk trade was carried out in abundance.

This route paved the way during the Han Dynasty for the local civilisation to interact with other civilisations and even lead to the development of similar civilisations in India, Persia, Arabia, etc. The route also paved the way for communication and trade between these civilisations and due to its obvious utility, was targeted by enemies bent on destroying it. Due to this and a timely convergence of a multitude of other reasons, the Great Wall of China was commissioned in an effort to protect the route from enemy forces.

Over time, this road became home not only to trade but also to the transmission of culture from one civilisation to another and a number of traders, monks and other dwellers chose to capitalise on its existence and began to travel and explore previously unknown regions. The route itself stretched over a stunning four thousand miles and extended itself to Java, India, Persia, Europe, Egypt and Arabia through both land and sea routes. In modern times, the Eurasian Land Bridge is referred to as the ‘New’ Silk Route but the obvious positive impact of the ancient route on modern times, is unparalleled and cannot be compared.

In light of this, for those who are staying in hotels in China and visiting the Great Wall, this iconic Chinese landmark can now be viewed in a different light as it served an important role in history and possibly the development of modern relations amongst nations. While the Great Wall is a must visit even if you are residing in Greater China hotels, there are a number of attractions whose history can be linked with the ancient route and in viewing most of such landmarks, opting for Millennium & Copthorne Hotels China, will provide tourists with the reliability and comfort they need when exploring the East.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Free Spirit. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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