Astana Cemetery, Archaeological cemetery in Sanbao, China
Astana Cemetery sits roughly 37 kilometers southeast of Turpan and spreads across the land with over 1,000 underground brick-lined tombs. The chambers are dug into the ground and have naturally preserved human remains thanks to the dry local climate.
This burial ground came into use between the 4th and 8th centuries and served Chinese settlers who lived in Gaochang. It holds the story of people who made their lives there more than 1000 years ago.
The tombs hold silver masks, textiles, coins, and personal objects that reveal how people here believed the dead would need things in the afterlife.
The site is easiest to reach by taxi from Turpan, with the ride taking roughly 40 minutes. The area is dry and open, so bring water and sun protection for your visit.
Excavations have uncovered food remains in the tombs, including jam tarts, grapes, plums, and nuts in surprisingly good condition. These foods show what people ate daily and their beliefs about nourishment in the afterlife.
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