Aorsi

The Aorsi,Aorsoi or Aorsen, also known as the Adorsi and in Greek as Aoirsoi was an ancient Iranian people of the Sarmatian group who played a major role in the events of the Pontic Steppe from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. They are often connected to the nomadic state of Yancai of Chinese records and the later Alans.

History

The most important source on the Aorsi is Geographica by the Greek geographer Strabo (64/63 BC – c. AD 24). Strabo writes that the Aorsi were one of the tribes who inhabited the area between Lake Maeotis and the Caspian Sea. They lived to the north and east of the related Siraces, who lived along the Achardeus. According to Strabo the territory of the Aorsi and Siraces stretched as far south as the Caucasus Mountains. The Aorsi and Siraces are believed to have migrated to this area from Central Asia in the late 5th century BC. The territory of the Aorsi is believed to have extended eastwards as far as the Aral Sea. Furthest to the east lived the Upper Aorsi. They held the largest territory, dominating according to Strabo the entire Caspian coast, which enabled them to become the most numerous faction. The Upper Aorsi imported Indian and Babylonian merchandise by camel through Armenia and Media, which enabled them to become wealthy. They controlled the northern part of the Silk Route, known as the Northern Route. The Aorsi became famous for their wearing of golden ornaments.