WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETTWENN THE GOBI DESERT AND THE SILK ROAD?

The Gobi Desert served as a significant geographical barrier in Central Asia, influencing trade routes of the ancient Silk Road. Merchants and travelers had to navigate its harsh conditions, which led to the establishment of specific trade paths around or through the desert. The Silk Road facilitated the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas between the East and West, with the Gobi Desert acting as both a challenge and a connector in these trade networks. Its presence shaped the movement of caravans and the development of key trading posts in nearby regions.