Tunxi

Tunxi is an ancient city located in the Anji, Tongling prefectures of Anhui province, China. The city was once a major stopping point on the renowned Silk Road, connecting the capital of the Eastern Wu state to the coastal cities of China. It was an important center for the production and trade of silk, ceramics, and other luxurious goods.

The name "Tunxi" literally translates to "outer market" in the local dialect. This moniker alludes to the city's initial status as a significant commercial hub and trading post. The site is believed to have been inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period, with archaeological evidence indicating occupation from around 8000-5000 BCE.

Situated near the confluence of the Wujiang and Yangtze rivers, the city took advantage of its strategic location to become a hub of trade. Merchants and travelers passed through Tunxi carrying a variety of goods, contributing to the cultural and economic diversity of the region.

Throughout its history, Tunxi has suffered from various changes in government and economic trends. It was a major center of commerce during the Eastern Jin dynasty but fell into decline with the onset of Buddhism and its subsequent shift in trade routes. Despite this, Tunxi remains a largely intact historical city filled with ancient streets, archaic buildings, and historic fortifications. It is considered one of the earliest and best-preserved links to the Silk Road in all of China.