Download
A visit to 4,300-year-old 'pyramid' in NW China
Updated 15:32, 25-Mar-2021
CGTN

Have you ever heard of an ancient "pyramid" in China? 

Shimao archaeological site in Shaanxi Province, northwest China. /VCG

Shimao archaeological site in Shaanxi Province, northwest China. /VCG

Shaanxi Province in northwest China is known for its rich archaeological treasures. Among many sites discovered in Shaanxi, the Shimao site is honored as "pyramids of Chinese civilization." Located near the west bank of the Yellow River, the Shimao site was discovered in 1976. With an area of 4.25 million square meters, it is the largest archaeological site in China from the late Neolithic period. The total area is about seven times of the famous Forbidden City in Beijing. Multiple layers of walls form a 70-meter tall palace complex. 

01:01

The Shimao archaeological site is believed to be built around 2300 BC, and abandoned around 1800 BC due to climate change and desert invasion. In the last century, large amounts of jade items were unearthed, drawing attention to the site. More tools, graves and mural paintings have been found in the ancient city ruins. Experts and research teams expect the site may reveal more unsolved myths of the ancient Chinese history. 

Jade pieces unearthed in Shimao site, Shaanxi province, northwest China. /VCG

Jade pieces unearthed in Shimao site, Shaanxi province, northwest China. /VCG

Jade pieces unearthed in Shimao site, Shaanxi province, northwest China. /VCG

Jade pieces unearthed in Shimao site, Shaanxi province, northwest China. /VCG

CGTN's Oscar Margain is at the site. Take a look at how amazing the ancient site is. 

01:09

"What's up Shaanxi" livestream series will be online from March 27 to April 7. The Shimao archaeological site livestream will air on 2 p.m. on March 27. This is the first stop of the Shaanxi tour, followed by other interesting places and events. Stay tuned for an impressive visual tour!

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)

Search Trends