The History of Kashan, Iran
In The History of Kashan, Iran, host Joanna Lumley visits the small city of Kashan in Iran, which is surrounded by desert. Ancient traders followed camel routes through the desert and Kashan grew from an oasis. Joanna visits a family of carpet weavers to see how the process of making Persian carpets continues today. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure, a documentary series uncovering the rich history and cultural treasures of the Silk Road.
Lesson Express
Q: How did the location of Kashan along the camel route contribute to its development?
A: Being located on an important trade route helped Kashan grow as a trading post and facilitated the exchange of goods such as carpets and pottery.
Q: Why do you think Persian carpets are still handwoven today in Kashan?
A: Handwoven carpets are an important part of Kashan's cultural heritage, and the skill has been passed down through generations.
Q: How might the city of Kashan look different today if it hadn't been an oasis in the desert?
A: Without the water source provided by the oasis, Kashan may not have been able to support trade or its unique cultural traditions.
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In The Fin Garden of Kashan, host Joanna Lumley visits a garden that was built in 1590 by channeling an ancient spring to bring flowing water to the desert. The water in this garden flows even during times of drought. The technology used to bring water to the surface has since been used in many other parts of the world. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure, a documentary series uncovering the rich history and cultural treasures of the Silk Road.
In The Fin Garden of Kashan, host Joanna Lumley visits a garden that was built in 1590 by channeling an ancient spring to bring flowing water to the desert. The water in this garden flows even during times of drought. The technology used to bring water to the surface has since been used in many other parts of the world. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure, a documentary series uncovering the rich history and cultural treasures of the Silk Road.