Taosi, Archaeological site in Xiangfen County, Shanxi, China.
Taosi is an archaeological site covering approximately 280 hectares surrounded by rammed-clay walls, with distinct zones for living, ceremonies, and astronomical observation. The remains date from 2300 to 1900 BC and reveal the organization of an early civilisation.
The settlement emerged during the Longshan period and demonstrates how early societies developed social order expressed through burial practices. The variation in grave sizes and contents reveals the emergence of social hierarchy during this era.
The observatory reflects how people organized their lives around the sun and seasons, connecting their daily work to the sky above. This bond between celestial cycles and earthly activities shaped how the community functioned together.
The site spans a large area, so allow plenty of time and wear comfortable shoes to explore the different zones. It helps to have a local guide explain the excavation areas and what each structure reveals about how people lived.
Excavations uncovered musical instruments including drums, chimes, and a bronze bell, suggesting that music played an important role in community rituals. These discoveries hint at a level of cultural refinement and artistic expression that may surprise many visitors.
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