The Erlitou archaeological site in Luoyang City, Henan Province, has been confirmed as the largest central city site on the East Asian continent from the early 2nd millennium BC. As the earliest large-scale capital site from China's Bronze Age, Erlitou showcases clear urban planning.
Many scholars believe that Erlitou was the capital of China's first dynasty—the Xia Dynasty (around 2070 BC-1600 BC)—and refer to it as the "Xia Ruins." The site's significance extends beyond its scale and layout; the precious artifacts unearthed there highlight its historical importance.
Among the most remarkable discoveries is a dragon-shaped artifact composed of over 2,000 pieces of turquoise. Found in the tomb of an ancient aristocrat within the palace area, this exquisite relic measures approximately 70 centimeters in length. It stands out among early Chinese dragon artifacts for its size, craftsmanship, and the sheer number of turquoise pieces used, earning its status as a national treasure in China.
Archaeologists believe that the tomb owner was likely an important official during the Xia Dynasty, as evidenced by his burial in the palace area and the wealth of treasures he was interred with. This dragon-shaped artifact not only reflects the high level of craftsmanship of the time but also showcases the early stages of Chinese dragon culture.
The excavation of the Erlitou site offers a fascinating glimpse into the splendor of early Chinese urban civilization, revealing the ingenuity and creativity of ancient Chinese people. It remains a crucial window for studying ancient Chinese civilization and serves as an essential foundation for understanding China's historical development.
Reference(s):
Turquoise dragon of Erlitou: A treasure from 4,000 years ago
cgtn.com
