Join us on a journey through central Asia – its history, people, art, architecture then and now - in Cerne Abbas Village Hall, Dorset.

Day 5 on 18 March 2025 with lecturer Chris Aslan

Unravelling the Silk Road

Wool, cotton and silk have each played a crucial role in the fortunes of Central Asia. Wool created the clothing and housing needed by the great nomadic cultures that were to dominate Middle Asia. Silk was more valuable than gold and used as currency, creating a network of trading routes that led to the first outbreak of globalisation. Cotton was the cause of Russian and then Soviet Colonisation and continues to cause controversy today as well as human misery and environmental catastrophe The felts, carpets, embroideries, robes and veils of the Silk Road stratified wealth, displayed religious and political entrenchments and changed the fortunes of this fascinating part of the world; a meeting place between Mohammed and Marx.

Fee: £35 which includes coffee/tea and biscuits plus a delicious light lunch with wine and soft drinks.