Chang'an was an ancient capital for more than ten Chinese dynasties. Also known as the famous eastern terminal of the Silk Road, it was situated in the Shaanxi province just relatively near Xi'an. Chang'an was the Chinese capital for the Han, Sui and Tang dynasty leaders.
Strategic and economic importance of ancient Chang'an. The mountainous country surrounding the Wei River basin led to the existence of only two practicable roads through to the south, and two through mountainous Gansu to the west, forming the beginning of the ancient Silk Routes.
