China presents archaeological findings on Hongshan culture

Academics from China today presented the latest archaeological results from the Hongshan Cultural Stone Tomb in this city of Inner Mongolia.

The experts spoke about the discovery of more than 100 pieces of jade in the largest stone tomb of the late phase of this culture in the region.

Among the objects unearthed is the largest dragon-shaped jade recorded to date.

A piece similar to jade crowns from the Lingjiatan culture was also discovered, which provided new information about jade archeology in Inner Mongolia, the scholars explained.

According to specialists, these findings will help explore the origin of the phenomenon of "hiding jade in walls" in the Hetao region during the Longshan era.

The Hongshan culture, which dates back about 6,500 years, is characterized by its rituals and sophisticated jade work, while it is an important reference in research on the origin of Chinese civilization.

Its development and subsequent influences were key to the evolution of China's cultural traditions.

The experts explained that, within the vast constellation of civilizations that make up Chinese culture, Hongshan is one of the most brilliant.

Its inclusive character and focus on unity despite diversity laid the foundations for important traditions of the Asian giant, such as respect for jade and worship of the dragon.

The findings were presented at a seminar marking the 70th anniversary of the naming of the "Hongshan Culture."