Knowing All about Hunan

Stadium excavation uncovers ancient Changsha wells

Editor:李莎宁 实习生 黄颖艺
Source:Changsha Evening N
Updated:2016-08-23 14:27:16

Archeologists have uncovered one tomb and 25 ancient wells under Hunan People's Stadium in Changsha, Changsha Evening News has reported. These discoveries provide a treasure-trove of information that will help researchers to deepen their understanding the fluctuations of Changsha's history.  

Fittingly, for a place that now plays host to athletic competition, the site formerly known as Dongfeng Square was a martial arts practice ground during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911).  

Yet this is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the site's historical longevity and, with some of the finds dating back to the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), it is hoped that a thorough investigation will help to reveal more details of Changsha's rich history.  

Changsha Archaeology Research Institute is responsible for these illuminating finds. The organization proposed their plans to the local authorities in February, a time when the stadium was due to undergo renovation, and received the green light to begin work.  

The excavation of a Warring States Period tomb unearthed one period pottery vessel, one bronze sword, and two ceramic bowls. Archeologists also uncovered 13 wells dating from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and two from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The wells uncovered an assortment of both porcelain and celadon tiles.  

A further 10 wells were excavated but are yet to be attributed to a specific dynastic era.