A 2,000-year-old ancient tomb discovered at the Xinjiang archaeological site in China has astonished archaeologists due to the numerous treasures classified as “national treasures,” including a golden lion weighing up to 1 ton, according to KK News.
The Southern Xinjiang Railway plays a crucial role in the transportation system of the Xinjiang region in China. It begins in Turfan and passes through Yuergou, Korla, and Kashgar.
Notably, 45 years ago, when railway workers were constructing the Yuergou station, they uncovered a series of ancient tombs of various sizes. Among these tombs, one stood out, containing countless national treasure artifacts made of gold, including a golden lion weighing up to 1 ton, which shocked the nation and even the world.
During the construction of the railway station in Yuergou, Xinjiang, archaeologists made a priceless discovery.
Invaluable Treasures in the “Golden Tomb”
Archaeologists discovered a tomb filled with gold and priceless treasures.
Specifically, in 1976, during the construction of the Yuergou station, railway workers unearthed many ancient tombs. Initially, they excavated more than 20 tombs of varying sizes, which contained bronze and ceramic items, but none had significant archaeological value.
The Xinjiang Cultural Relics and Archaeology Institute stated that these ancient tombs date back to the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period through the Qin and Han Dynasties, and the tomb occupants were nomadic ethnic minorities.
In subsequent phases, more ancient tombs were discovered in the area, totaling over 80. Notably, among these was a remarkably large tomb, with an unprecedented number of gold and treasure items found within, leading to its designation as the “Golden Tomb.”
Gold treasures discovered in the tomb.
“The Golden Tomb” is 7.1 meters deep, approximately 6.56 meters long, and 4.22 meters wide. It is a vertical tomb, lined with cobblestones, with a rough and simple design that reflects the lifestyle of ancient nomads. Among the findings were 8 gold plaques engraved with tiger images, 4 gold belts shaped like tigers, one plaque shaped like a lion, and over 200 other gold decorations such as gold beads and gold flowers.
An abundance of gold in this over 2,000-year-old tomb.
There are also gold beads.
Most astonishing is the 1-ton golden lion plaque, carved to lifelike perfection.
The exquisite golden plaque.
Additionally, archaeologists discovered a unique lacquered artifact within the ancient tomb. This discovery is incredibly significant as it helps to settle the debate over whether China was capable of producing perfect lacquerware during the Warring States, Qin, and Han periods.
Unfortunately, the excavation results of the “Golden Tomb” have not been made public due to various special reasons. However, this only heightens public curiosity and interest in the findings.
The Mystery of the Tomb Owner’s Identity
The vast amount of treasures in the “Golden Tomb” has sparked curiosity among both archaeologists and the public regarding the identity of its owner and any special background they may have had.
According to research findings by archaeologists, the tomb’s occupant may have lived 2,135 years ago and was female, a beauty who was around 30 years old at the time of her death.
Notably, there is a drilled hole in the skull of the tomb’s occupant. According to archaeologists, this may have been the cause of her death.
An ancient nomadic people in Northern Asia used skull drilling techniques to treat headaches. The procedure is believed to relieve intracranial pressure, making it easier for individuals suffering from headaches, but the technique is very difficult and can easily lead to death if not performed carefully.
Archaeologists speculate that the tomb’s occupant could be a Cheshi or Huns, who were indigenous ethnic groups with a long history in Turpan, known for their fondness for hunting dogs, their reverence for gold, and their passion for collecting gold.
However, the materials and patterns found in the tomb also align with those of the Xiongnu nobility, who lived in the area during a later period and also had a liking for gold.
