Tomb complex reveals ancient relics in Henan province

( chinadaily.com.cn )

Updated: 2018-07-02

Archaeologists excavate at the Shangshihe village tombs in Sanmenxia city, Henan province, June 30, 2018. [Photo/ismx.cn]

After more than three months of archaeological excavation, the Shangshihe village in Sanmenxia city of Henan province has unearthed 21 rectangle vertical pit tombs, 6 horse pits, and nearly 500 pieces of relics covering copper, pottery, and jade.

A total of 28 horses were found in the six horse pits, which were all in small and medium size and shaped in north-south rectangle. The horses lying on one side were facing north and were accompanied by dogs.

According to the preliminary analysis of archaeological experts, Shangshihe village tomb complex possibly has tombs of the nobles from the early and middle Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). The site was discovered in July last year, when a local chemical enterprise was expanding construction.

A horse pit discovered at the Shangshihe village tombs in Sanmenxia city, Henan province, June 30, 2018. [Photo/IC]

Relics discovered at the Shangshihe village tombs in Sanmenxia city, Henan province, June 30, 2018. [Photo/ismx.cn]

Bronze wares unearthed from the Shangshihe village tombs in Sanmenxia city, Henan province, June 30, 2018. [Photo/ismx.cn]