Wugengliao Blast Furnaces, Ancient metallurgical site in Shangtianzhi, China.
Wugengliao Blast Furnaces is a metallurgical site with several preserved smelting furnaces and production facilities that demonstrate traditional Chinese iron-making techniques. The structures illustrate the practical methods used to process raw iron into usable materials.
The furnaces originated in early dynasties as centers of iron production and were later reactivated during the Great Leap Forward in the 1950s and 1960s for national steel production. This reactivation marked a turning point when the ancient site played a new role in modern Chinese industry.
The furnaces reflect the importance of metalwork in Chinese society and show how local communities developed their technical skills in iron production. Visitors can see how these structures were woven into people's daily lives and what role they played in supplying tools and materials.
The site is accessible via marked pathways in Shangtianzhi, accompanied by informational signs. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and take time to explore the various structures and their explanations.
The ancient site preserves a sophisticated water-powered bellows system that supplied air to the furnaces and significantly increased metal production efficiency. This technical system shows the innovation of early metalworkers who intelligently used natural resources to improve their output.
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