Journey from Nara to Norwich
The origins of Buddhism and Christianity are found in south and west Asia respectively, but both religions spread in the centuries following the deaths of their founders finding new centres of faith in central Asia and southern Europe under the Kushan (1st–3rd centuries AD), Roman (27 BC–5th century AD) and Han empires (206 BC–AD 220). It was from these regions that the religions were then taken further, to the edges of Asia and Europe—to Nara and Norwich.
Discover how religions adapt
Religions play a central role in the human story. Defining religion, and how it has shaped the evolution of our species, remain among our major intellectual challenges. The online exhibition offers a vision of the role of religion and art at a time of great change on a trans-continental scale, shaped by the collapse of the Roman, Kushan and Han empires. The exhibition makes the global accessible through personalised accounts and specific discoveries through stories and an exhibit database.
Explore Arts and Beliefs at the Ends of the Silk Roads
The Nara to Norwich website will continue to be updated until 2024 when a physical exhibition will be held in Norwich.
Recently Released
IASSRT Papers: Viking Warriors Dressed In Silk
Following the IASSRT symposium, we are publishing a series of posts showcasing the papers most relevant to the Nara to Norwich project. This abstract is by Charlotte Hedenstierna-Jonson, on silk fragments from the eastern Mediterranean found in Scandinavian burials.
IASSRT Papers: Nahal Omer Middens as indicator for Networks of Trade along the Silk Road on the Edges of Europe: The Textile Evidence
Following the IASSRT symposium, we are publishing a series of posts showcasing the papers most relevant to the Nara to Norwich project. This abstract is by Orit Shamir and her colleagues, on silk fragments from south and east found in the eastern Mediterranean.
IASSRT Papers: In what form was Chinese silk transported to the Roman empire?
Following the IASSRT symposium, we are publishing a series of posts showcasing the papers most relevant to the Nara to Norwich project. This paper, by Hero Granger-Taylor, considers the hypotheses about in what form the Romans acquired silk.
Read More IASSRT Papers: In what form was Chinese silk transported to the Roman empire?
Enjoy your visit