Known as the Xiyu or western regions in ancient times, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is situated along the famous Silk Road and has been home to many ethnic groups throughout history. These diverse communities in Xinjiang have played an important role in the broader Chinese family through both prosperity and adversity.
The Xinjiang Museum, which houses over 25,000 cultural relics and specimens, narrates the rich history of cultural interactions in the region. The artifacts on display emphasize that Xinjiang has long been a melting pot of ethnic cultures and highlight the significance of these groups as key contributors to China's heritage.
The museum hosts the "Han Hai Zhen Yi" exhibition of exquisite ancient costumes from Xinjiang. /CFP
The mummy known as the Loulan Beauty on display at the museum. She is one of over 200 remarkably well-preserved mummies uncovered in the western deserts of Xinjiang in recent decades. /CFP
This Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD) brocade armband, embroidered with the phrase "Five stars rising in the east favor the Middle Kingdom," was unearthed at the Niya Ruins in Xinjiang in 1995. As a national first-grade cultural relic, it is prohibited from being exhibited abroad. Measuring 18.5 cm by 12.5 cm, the armband features three straps on each long side and was used by archers as an arm protector in ancient China. /CFP
The museum showcases unearthed cultural relics. /CFP
Bronze Ding, a container with double handles and beast's feet. /CFP
A Tang Dynasty (618-907) mooncake with precious flower patterns, which is also the only known Tang Dynasty mooncake-style food relic discovered in China. /CMG