The main commodity that gave the entire system its name was Chinese silk. In ancient times, the secret of its production was closely guarded, making this fabric incredibly expensive and prestigious in the markets of the Roman Empire and Byzantium. However, the importance of the Silk Road extended far beyond textile trade. Porcelain, tea, spices, paper, and gunpowder were transported from east to west. In the opposite direction, from Europe and Central Asia, came thoroughbred horses, glass, carpets, jewelry, and grapes. Every oasis and major city along this route developed into a thriving center of crafts and international trade.
