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Why the Xixia Imperial Tombs are known as the 'Pyramids of the East'

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In Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, northwestern China, lie the Xixia Imperial Tombs.

The archaeological site has yielded nine imperial tombs, 271 smaller graves and over 7,100 artifacts. Referred to as the "Pyramids of the East," these desert structures serve as mausoleums for ancient emperors. The site's sophisticated flood control system offers new insight into the advanced engineering of the Xixia Dynasty (1038–1227).

The Xixia Imperial Tombs are now China's top candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status in 2025.

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