The empire known for its extensive network of silk roads is the Han Dynasty in ancient China, which thrived from 206 BC to 220 AD. The Silk Road was not a single road but a complex network of trade routes connecting China to the Mediterranean, promoting the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas. This trade network facilitated the transport of silk, spices, and other valuable commodities, significantly impacting commerce and cultural diffusion across Asia and Europe. The Han Dynasty's expansion and support for trade helped solidify these vital connections, establishing China as a major player in global trade.