Marco Polo, the famed merchant and traveler who introduced Europe to China and Central Asia.
Marco Polo traveled the Silk Road and spent time in the court of Kublai Khan, the great Mongolian leader.
After an epic 24 year journey Marco Polo returned to Venice and was imprisoned by Genoa forces occupying the city. While in prison Polo dictated his adventures to a fellow inmate.
His book “Livres des merveilles du monde” (Book of the Marvels of the World), now known as “The Travels of Marco Polo” inspired hundreds of adventurers including Christopher Columbus.
