Maoling, Imperial tomb complex in Xingping, China
Maoling is an imperial burial complex in Xingping with a rammed-earth mound rising about 47 meters tall and a rectangular base. The site contains thousands of archaeological artifacts, including pottery, figurines, and bronze objects from the Han Dynasty.
This burial site was founded roughly 2,100 years ago as the tomb of a Han Dynasty emperor and represented one of the empire's largest construction projects. The site documents the architectural techniques and burial practices of this historical period.
The mausoleum reflects burial customs of the Han Dynasty, where emperors were sent to the afterlife with treasures and fine objects. Visitors can see how this site embodied the dynasty's views on royal power and the continuation of life beyond death.
The site has an associated museum located about one kilometer away that displays excavated objects and artifacts. A visit is best planned for dry weather, as the earth mound can become slippery after rain.
Geophysical surveys discovered gold and other metals buried in the soil around the site, suggesting vast treasures may still lie undisturbed underground. This makes the complex one of the most promising locations in China for future archaeological discoveries.
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