The Silk Road

The Silk Road (2016)

EndedDocumentary showTravel, History

Dr. Sam Willis reveals how the Silk Road was the world's first global superhighway where people with new ideas, new cultures and new religions made exchanges that shaped humanity.

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Scheduleevery Sunday at 21:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Episode 3
Season 1Episode 360 min

Episode 3

In the final episode of his series tracing the story of the most famous trade route in history, Dr. Sam Willis continues his journey west in Iran. The first BBC documentary team to be granted entry for nearly a decade, Sam begins in the legendary city of Persepolis - the heart of the first Persian Empire.

Following an ancient caravan route through Persia's deserts, he visits a Zoroastrian temple where a holy fire has burned for 1,500 years, and Esfahan, one of the Silk Road's architectural jewels and rival to Sam's next destination - Istanbul. In the ancient capital of Byzantium, Sam discovers how the eastern Roman Empire was ruled through silk and how Venetian merchants cashed in on the wealth and trade it generated.

Sam's last stop takes him full circle to Venice. Visiting Marco Polo's house, Sam reminds us how the great traveller's book was one of the first to link East to West and how the ideas and products that trickled down the Silk Road not only helped to trigger the Renaissance, but set Europe on a path of unstoppable change.

May 15, 2016

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E03Episode 3May 15, 2016
S01E02Episode 2May 8, 2016
S01E01Episode 1May 1, 2016
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did the TV show 'The Silk Road' premiere?

'The Silk Road' premiered on September 18, 2016.

Who created the TV show 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' was created by Mariana van Zeller and Darren Foster.

In which countries was 'The Silk Road' filmed?

'The Silk Road' was filmed in various countries including China, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Colombia.

What is the genre of 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' is a documentary series.

Who narrated 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' was narrated by Mariana van Zeller.

What is the premise of 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' explores the historical and contemporary significance of the ancient trade route connecting East and West, focusing on the people and cultures along the way.

How many episodes are there in 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' consists of eight episodes.

What are some of the countries visited in 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' visits countries such as Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, among others.

Who are some of the key figures interviewed in 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' features interviews with individuals such as smugglers, traders, and locals who share their experiences and insights.

How does 'The Silk Road' shed light on the impact of the trade route on modern-day society?

'The Silk Road' delves into topics like drug trafficking, black markets, and cultural exchange to showcase the ongoing influence of the ancient trade route.

What are some of the challenges faced by the filmmakers during the production of 'The Silk Road'?

The filmmakers of 'The Silk Road' encountered obstacles such as navigating dangerous territories, language barriers, and gaining the trust of interviewees in order to capture authentic stories.

How does 'The Silk Road' depict the cultural diversity along the trade route?

'The Silk Road' highlights the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and religions that coexist along the ancient trade route, showcasing the unique beauty of each destination.

What are some of the historical events explored in 'The Silk Road'?

'The Silk Road' delves into historical events such as the rise and fall of empires, the spread of Buddhism, and the impact of the Silk Road on the global economy.

How does 'The Silk Road' illuminate the interconnectedness of nations and people?

'The Silk Road' emphasizes how the exchange of goods, ideas, and knowledge along the trade route connected distant civilizations, shaping the world we know today.

What are some of the dangers and risks associated with traveling along the Silk Road?

'The Silk Road' highlights the dangers of smuggling, political instability, and the illicit trade that still plagues parts of the route, providing a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by those involved.

How does 'The Silk Road' contribute to our understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the trade route?

'The Silk Road' offers a compelling exploration of the trade route's impact on the development of civilizations, fostering an appreciation for the historical and cultural heritage it represents.

Cast

Dr. Sam Willis

Dr. Sam Willis

plays himself
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Characters

Presenter

Presenter

played by Dr. Sam Willis
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