Xian is one of the most important cities in China´s history and nowadays. It was the first Chinese city to open up its doors to the ancient world during the Tang dynasty when Xian blossomed as the first and important stop on the Silk Road. Over a period of more than 2000 years, Xian was the capital for eleven dynasties. Along with Rome and Constantinople, this city was a world leader in culture and trade and played a vital role in bridging the gap between east and west. Many of the sites to visit are outside Xian and the surrounding countryside offers a treasure trove of historical and religious relics. Being a major tourist destination and historical city, today Xian is also an important industrial and manufacturing center. Despite the incredible history that Xian carries, it is a modern and prosperous area.