Athanasius Nikitin was a _______.traveller. 

The correct answer is - Russian

Key Points

• Athanasius Nikitin
  • He was a Russian traveler who explored various regions, including India, during the 15th century.
  • Nikitin's travel accounts are considered one of the earliest European descriptions of India and its culture.
  • He traveled to India between 1466 and 1472, during which he documented his observations about the economy, society, and religious practices of the region.
• Significance of Athanasius Nikitin
  • His journey was unique because it provided insights into medieval Indian life from a European perspective.
  • His travelogue, titled "The Journey Beyond Three Seas" (in Russian: Khozheniye za tri morya), is an important historical document.
  • His writings highlight the trade relations between Russia and India during that era.

Additional Information

• Other Notable Travelers to India
  • Marco Polo: An Italian traveler who visited India in the late 13th century and described the southern regions in detail.
  • Fa-Hien: A Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the 5th century to study Buddhist scriptures.
  • Al-Biruni: A Persian scholar and historian who documented Indian culture, science, and religions in the 11th century.
• Trade Relations Between Russia and India
  • During the 15th century, trade routes between Russia and India were established through intermediaries like Persia and Central Asia.
  • Athanasius Nikitin's journey reflects the growing interest in trade and cultural exchange between the two regions.
  • His accounts provide valuable information about the goods traded, such as spices, textiles, and precious stones.