|

A group of ancient family tombs dating from the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) to the Southern Dynasties (420-589) has been discovered at the Jiuli archaeological site in Yuecheng district, Shaoxing, East China's Zhejiang province.

Archaeologists have uncovered a rare cluster of tombs at the foot of Kuaiji Mountain near Fayin Temple. The findings, which span multiple dynasties, include a Three Kingdoms-era tomb featuring a brick dated to the year 270.

The tombs display distinct regional characteristics, with large-scale structures, complex layouts, and sophisticated drainage systems. Many of the graves include water seepage troughs and drainage ditches, some extending more than 20 meters. These features reflect early engineering ingenuity and the ancient residents' effective use of local topography.

Among the most significant discoveries is a tomb from the Three Kingdoms period (220-280). At the sealed entrance, archaeologists found a brick inscribed with a date corresponding to AD 270, along with ceramic items from the same era. This is the first time such a precisely dated brick has been found in Shaoxing, offering a rare, direct link to a specific year in Chinese antiquity.

Many of the unearthed artifacts — including bricks, ceramics, and architectural components — are first-time discoveries in the region. Researchers say the findings fill important gaps in the archaeological record of Shaoxing and provide valuable material for studying changes in burial customs, living standards, and social structures over time.