The Road to Oxiana

Robert Byron's The Road to Oxiana details his captivating 1933 journey through the Middle East, offering insights into its architectural treasures and cultural richness.

In The Road to Oxiana, travel writer Robert Byron embarks on a fascinating journey through the Middle East in 1933. His route takes him through Beirut, Jerusalem, Baghdad, and Tehran, ultimately leading to Oxiana, a region near the border of Afghanistan and the Soviet Union. Byron's narrative captures not only his encounters with the diverse cultures and landscapes of the area but also his frequent misadventures, making the book a captivating read for those interested in travel literature.

This work stands out as a rare account of the architectural treasures of a region that has become largely inaccessible to Western travelers today. Byron's descriptions provide a nostalgic glimpse into a more innocent time, highlighting the beauty and complexity of the Middle East before it underwent significant changes. His observations are rich with detail, painting a vivid picture of the places he visited and the people he met along the way.

Originally celebrated upon its release, The Road to Oxiana fell into relative obscurity until Paul Fussell's 1982 publication of Abroad rekindled interest in Byron's work. Fussell's comparison of Byron's travelogue to literary masterpieces like Ulysses and The Waste Land underscored its significance. This new edition, featuring an introduction by Rory Stewart, aims to reintroduce Byron's timeless observations to a fresh audience, ensuring that his journey continues to inspire and inform readers today.