2026 Lecture Series: "China and Rome—Two Ancient Powers in Dialogue"

The lecture “China and Rome – Two Ancient Powers in Exchange” at the Mainhardt Roman Museum explores possible contacts, trade routes, and cultural connections between the two great empires of antiquity. The speaker is Ortwin Köhler, M.A. With the lecture “China and Rome – Two Ancient Powers in Exchange,” the Roman Museum in Mainhardt continues its small Mainhardt lecture series. Speaker Ortwin Köhler, M.A., will focus on two of the most significant advanced civilizations of antiquity and explore the question of whether and how these empires were connected. The Roman Empire stretched across large parts of Europe and the entire Mediterranean region. Yet it was not military strength alone that made Rome a center of power for centuries. Trade, cultural exchange, and a far-reaching network of diverse peoples were equally decisive. At the same time, another powerful empire was developing on the other side of the world: China. The lecture will highlight the parallels between the two empires and explore which trade routes or contacts may have facilitated exchange. Look forward to an exciting insight into ancient trade relations, cultural connections, and the fascinating question of just how close Rome and China actually were.