New Neolithic site discovered in Taiyuan

The Taiyuan Cultural Relics Protection and Research Institute, in collaboration with relevant research institutions, has uncovered a significant Neolithic site in Xipanwei village, Yangqu county, Taiyuan. Dubbed the Xipanwei Site, this discovery provides crucial physical evidence for understanding the formation of the integrated and diverse framework of Chinese civilization.

Unearthed pottery fragments at the Xipanwei Site. [Photo/Shanxi News Network]

The site spans three north-south-oriented loess terraces among the Xipanwei, Dongpanwei, and Honggou villages, covering approximately 200,000 square meters. Investigations have revealed remnants such as burnt earth and ash pits in ditches between the terraces, with eight ash pits and one burial site uncovered so far.

Unearthed artifacts include pottery, stone tools, and bone implements. The pottery is notably abundant, predominantly featuring red-brown designs. The discovery of polished stone tools and a few bone artifacts also indicates a high level of craftsmanship during that period.

Based on the characteristics of the findings, archaeologists have determined that the main phase of the Xipanwei Site dates back to the late Yangshao Culture. This discovery not only fills a gap in archaeological research on the late Yangshao Culture in the Yangqu area but also holds significant academic value in enhancing understanding of prehistoric cultural development in the Taiyuan Basin.