平陆运河风物志 | 文明星火照运河

Core Insights - The article discusses the historical significance of the Ma'anshan area, highlighting the discovery of ancient human fossils known as "Ling Shan Ren" dating back approximately 20,000 years, which provides important clues for the study of human evolution in South China [2][3][7]. Group 1: Historical Significance - The Ma'anshan area has been a site of human activity for over 20,000 years, with evidence of prehistoric civilization emerging from the region [1]. - The discovery of human fossils and artifacts in the 1960s, including skulls and bones from multiple individuals, indicates that "Ling Shan Ren" lived during the late Paleolithic era and had developed the use of fire [2][3][6]. Group 2: Archaeological Findings - Numerous artifacts from the Neolithic era, such as stone tools and pottery, have been unearthed in the Ma'anshan area, further establishing its importance as an archaeological site [3][8]. - The East Victory Cave, where the "Ling Shan Ren" fossils were first discovered, remains a site of archaeological value, although it is currently not open to the public [3][4]. Group 3: Cultural Heritage - The Ma'anshan area has transformed into a heritage park, featuring walking trails and sculptures commemorating "Ling Shan Ren," reflecting the ongoing interest in the region's ancient history [7]. - The article emphasizes the continuity of human exploration and adaptation from prehistoric times to the present, symbolized by the cultural sites along the Pinglu Canal [8].