Major archaeological discovery in China reveals over 80 ancient sites spanning multiple dynasties

More than 80 archaeological sites have been uncovered in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China, as part of the fourth national cultural relics census, as reported by Global Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

These newly identified locations contain artefacts dating from the Neolithic period to modern times, providing valuable insights into the region’s historical and cultural evolution.

The discoveries were concentrated along the Beibu Gulf coast, an area renowned for its underwater archaeology and evidence of cross-cultural exchanges. Among the sites, Shanmiaoling and Dishuiping yielded pottery with distinctive comb-pattern decorations, which archaeologists attribute to the Southern Dynasties (420-589), Sui Dynasty (581-618), and Tang Dynasty (618-907). Experts suggest these relics are linked to the ancient Li people, an ethnic group whose cultural legacy is reflected in several modern ethnic communities, including the Zhuang, Buyi, and Dong.

Additional sites feature artefacts from the Warring States Period (475 BC-221 BC) and the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-206 BC). Notably, pottery decorated with grid and waffle-like patterns was found along riverbanks, offering valuable data for studying the craftsmanship of the Qin and Han dynasties.

The diversity of sites spans ancient city ruins, settlements, kilns, tombs, and iron-smelting locations, reflecting the region's complex historical development. A notable find is Caoxie Village in Hepu County, which houses the remnants of a Han Dynasty pottery workshop.

This large-scale archaeological project covers 20,000 square kilometres over nearly 70 days in 2024. Researchers used high-precision RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) technology for precise mapping.

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