Xianren Cave, Archaeological site in Wannian County, China
The cave structure measures 7 meters in height, 11 meters in width, and extends 14 meters deep into the limestone formation of Dayuan Township.
Scientists discovered pottery fragments dating between 20,000 and 19,000 years ago, establishing this location as the source of the earliest known pottery worldwide.
The name Xianren translates to Cave of the Immortals, referencing the mythological enlightened beings central to traditional Chinese beliefs and stories.
Researchers continue their excavation work at the site, which received designation as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level in 2001.
The pottery fragments found in the cave display scorch marks indicating cooking use by nomadic foragers during the Late Glacial Maximum period.
Location: Wannian County
GPS coordinates: 28.73608,117.17322
Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:31
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