Turpan China, Silk Road

Like Hami, Turpan is located in Xinjiang and is one of Central Asia's most ancient and historically significant oases. Its history stretches back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence pointing to early human settlements as far back as the Bronze Age. Artefacts reveal the presence of metallurgy, farming, and trade networks, which laid the foundation for Turpan's later prominence as a commercial hub, further strengthened by its strategic position along the northern route of the Silk Road.

Also, like Hami, Turpan's long-term control alternated between Chinese dynasties, local rulers, and other Central Asian powers, such as the Uyghurs (Turks) and the Xiongnu (nomads). Regardless of the changing powers, however, Turpan flourished and absorbed the cultural, religious, and technological influences left behind by each ruling group, including the innovative underground irrigation system known as the karez. This system, combined with the region's arid climate, supported Turpan's tradition of grape cultivation since the Han Dynasty, especially seedless white grapes, along with red and black grapes harvested in the fall.

As a bustling crossroads, many goods were traded, but silk was one of the most highly sought-after products. First produced in China thousands of years ago, silk is made from the silkworm’s cocoon, which is fed on mulberry leaves. According to Chinese legend, Empress Leizu (circa 27th century BCE) discovered silk by accident. The story goes that while she was sitting under a mulberry tree, a silkworm cocoon fell into her tea. As she tried to retrieve it, the cocoon began to unravel into long, delicate threads. Intrigued by the fine threads, she is said to have figured out how to unwind them carefully and weave them into fabric. Although the details of this story are mythical, the empress is still credited with introducing sericulture, the practice of raising silkworms to produce silk.

Silk became highly valuable due to its lightweight, smooth texture, natural sheen, and vibrant colours. The production process was labour-intensive, and while the fabric had a delicate feel, it was surprisingly strong and durable. Silk was often associated with royalty and nobility, symbolising wealth and status, and its rarity outside of China made it a desirable, exclusive luxury fabric for garments and tapestries.