A picture shows a 3D-display of Shang Dynasty chariots at the newly opened Yinxu Museum in Anyang, central China's Henan Province. /CGTN
As the first documented capital in Chinese history, verified through both archaeological discoveries and oracle bone inscriptions, Yinxu in Anyang, Henan Province, stands as a cornerstone of Chinese civilization.
One of the most fascinating finds at Yinxu are Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC) horse-drawn chariots, the earliest physical evidence of animal-drawn vehicles in Chinese archaeology. This discovery places China among the world's earliest civilizations to invent and use wheeled transport. The well-preserved chariot pit, displayed at the Yinxu Museum, holds immense academic value for research and exhibition purposes.
The chariots of the Shang Dynasty were not only aesthetically intriguing but also ingeniously designed. They were lightweight yet sturdy, with a low center of gravity that ensured smooth, comfortable rides. These vehicles reflect the technical expertise and craftsmanship in that age.