Watch David Baddiel On The Silk Road

David Baddiel On The Silk Road is a fascinating and informative travel documentary series that sees comedian and author David Baddiel embark on an incredible journey through Central Asia in search of the history, culture and stories of the Silk Road. The Silk Road is an ancient network of trade routes that spanned over 7,000 miles from China to the Mediterranean, connecting the East and West and facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas and culture. In the series, Baddiel travels across six countries - China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran and Turkey - experiencing the sights, sounds and flavours of the region while meeting locals, historians and experts along the way.

In the first episode, Baddiel begins his journey in China, where he visits the city of Xi'an, home of the Terracotta Army and the starting point of the Silk Road. He then heads to the Taklamakan Desert, one of the largest and driest deserts in the world, where he speaks to camel herders and explores a thousand-year-old Buddhist cave. In the second episode, Baddiel travels to Kyrgyzstan, a mountainous country known for its nomadic culture and stunning natural beauty. Here, he learns about the traditional crafts of felt-making and horseback riding and attends a local wedding celebration.

In Uzbekistan, Baddiel visits the historic cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, which were once important hubs of trade and scholarship on the Silk Road. He marvels at the intricate tilework and architecture of the Registan and explores the tradition of Uzbekistan cuisine, including the famous pilaf rice dish. In Turkmenistan, Baddiel visits the city of Ashgabat, which is known for its modern and futuristic architecture, as well as the ancient Silk Road city of Merv, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The final episodes of the series take place in Iran and Turkey, where Baddiel explores the rich cultural history of these two countries. In Iran, he visits the cities of Isfahan and Shiraz, and learns about Persian poetry, architecture and the legacy of the Persian Empire. In Turkey, Baddiel travels along the eastern coast of the country and visits the city of Trabzon, where he samples the local tea and learns about the traditional songs and dance of the Laz people.

Throughout the series, Baddiel provides insightful commentary on the history and culture of the Silk Road and engages with local people to get a sense of their perspectives on the region's past, present and future. He also injects his trademark humor and wit into the show, making it an entertaining and educational watch.

Overall, David Baddiel On The Silk Road is a beautifully shot and well-crafted travel documentary series that highlights the diverse cultures and landscapes of Central Asia and sheds light on the enduring legacy of the Silk Road. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, travel or cultural exchange.