In a remarkable discovery that has stunned both locals and historians alike, 148 ancient tombs have been uncovered beneath the bustling grounds of the Guangzhou Zoo, a popular tourist attraction in the heart of the city.
The announcement, made on August 8, has revealed a treasure trove of history, with the tombs spanning various periods, including four from the Han Dynasty, 8 from the Jin and Southern Dynasties, 15 from the Tang Dynasty, and a staggering 121 from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
On-site display of unearthed artifacts. Image via 广州发布/WeChat
In total, 196 artifacts were unearthed from these burial sites.
This discovery isn’t entirely unexpected, given that the Guangzhou Zoo sits in one of the city’s key areas for ancient tombs.
Since 1956, nearly 500 ancient tombs have been excavated in over 30 different locations within the zoo.
However, this recent find is particularly significant due to the sheer number and diversity of the tombs, as well as the historical periods they represent.
Besides these 148 newly uncovered tombs, the most recent excavation occurred during the construction of the zoo’s new giant panda exhibit in 2023, where a group of 47 relics was unearthed, further enriching the zoo’s archaeological legacy.
The tombs uncovered span over 2,000 years, ranging from the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty.
Tang Dynasty Chinese Zodiac Pottery Figurines unearthed in Guangzhou. Image via Southern Han Mausoleums Museum
One of the most notable discoveries from the zoo is a set of eight pottery figurines representing the Chinese zodiac, unearthed in 2012.
These figurines, which are the oldest of their kind found in Guangdong Province, include representations of the rat, ox, dragon, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, and dog.
These figurines are currently on display at the Southern Han Mausoleums Museum.
As the excavation continues, there is much anticipation about what other historical treasures might still lie buried beneath Guangzhou.
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[Cover image via 广州发布/WeChat]