Jiuliandun Tombs, National cemetery in Zaoyang City, China
The Jiuliandun Tombs comprise nine separate burial pits located in Hubei Province. The pits contain chambers for the deceased, a dedicated section for horses and chariots, and numerous bronze and ceramic artifacts.
The burial site was established during the Warring States Period between 475-221 BC. Archaeological excavations in 2002 identified this as the largest known Chu burial cemetery from that era.
The tombs show how the Chu Kingdom buried their dead by placing weapons, vessels, and horse gear with the deceased. The way valuable objects were arranged alongside people and animals reveals much about the social order and beliefs of that era.
The excavation site can be explored on foot with the nine pit areas clearly separated from one another. Visitors should allow enough time to walk through all sections and view the exposed structures.
The site contains the largest known chariot and horse burial pit ever discovered in Chinese excavations. This specialized burial area demonstrates the high value placed on war horses and their role in warfare within Chu society.
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