Shiliuba Ancient Tombs in Gejiu City, Honghe
Overview
The Shiliuba Ancient Tombs (石榴坝古墓葬群) are located over 20 kilometers north of Gejiu City (个旧市), nestled on the southwestern hillside of Tangdian Village (倘甸村), in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). These tombs date back to the Warring States period (战国时期) and represent an essential part of the region’s archaeological heritage.
Archaeological Discoveries
In July and August of 1987, a significant excavation uncovered 24 ancient tombs, revealing more than 130 artifacts, such as:
- Bronze Weapons: Including bronze spears (青铜戈), chisels (锛), and knives (刀).
- Ceramics: Pottery dishes (陶盘) and jars (罐).
- Jade Items: Such as jade artifacts (玉), bracelets (镯), and tubes (玉管).
- Tools: Stone chisels (石锛) and grinding tools (砺石器物).
These artifacts exhibit intricate designs and reflect the cultural characteristics of the bronze culture prevalent in the Honghe River Basin (红河流域). The tombs themselves are categorized as small pit graves, with 22 of the excavated sites containing various grave goods.
Historical Significance
The tombs are dated to the mid to late Warring States period, approximately 2,500 years ago. This era was marked by significant developments in art, warfare, and trade. The bronze artifacts discovered here are particularly noteworthy for their craftsmanship, contributing to the understanding of cultural exchanges in ancient China.
Site Details
The Shiliuba Ancient Tombs are situated 2 kilometers northwest of Shiliuba Village (石榴坝村) in Tangdian Township (倘甸乡) of Gejiu City. The excavation was a collaborative effort between the Yunnan Provincial Archaeological Institute (云南省考古所) and Gejiu City Museum (个旧市博物馆), aimed at preserving the historical significance of this site. Visitors can explore the tombs and observe the surrounding landscape, which offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
How to Get There
To reach the Shiliuba Ancient Tombs, you can:
- By Bus: Take a local bus from the center of Gejiu City to Tangdian Village. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
- By Car: Driving is convenient, and you can enjoy scenic views along the way. Parking is available near the site.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather, making it ideal for exploration.
- Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour can enhance your understanding of the site’s history and the significance of the artifacts.
- Photography: Bring a camera for capturing the tombs and artifacts, especially during golden hour for beautiful lighting.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local Yunnan dishes in Gejiu City, such as rice noodles and various mushroom dishes, which are popular in the region.
- Cultural Etiquette: Be respectful when visiting historical sites, and follow any posted guidelines to preserve the integrity of the location.
