人民日报丨探访牛河梁，寻找红山古国 揭秘5800年前的“超级工程”（感知文化里的中国）

Core Viewpoint - The archaeological discoveries at the Niuhe Liang site in Liaoning Province, which date back approximately 5800 years, have pushed back the timeline of Chinese civilization's origins by five to six hundred years, highlighting the significance of the Hongshan culture as the largest known archaeological site of its kind [4][9]. Group 1: Archaeological Significance - The Niuhe Liang site is the largest known archaeological site of the Hongshan culture, covering nearly 60 square kilometers with 51 confirmed sites [6]. - Recent excavations have revealed a large architectural complex consisting of at least nine platforms, with the main structure covering about 60,000 square meters, indicating advanced organizational capabilities of the Hongshan people [6][8]. - The site features sophisticated engineering solutions, such as a dual water drainage system, showcasing the early architectural principles that may have influenced later Chinese architecture [8]. Group 2: Cultural Insights - The discoveries at Niuhe Liang have redefined the narrative of the origins of Chinese civilization, marking it as the earliest known form of civilization in the region [9]. - The findings suggest that the Hongshan culture, which thrived from over 6500 years ago to around 5000 years ago, may have expanded and integrated with other civilizations rather than disappearing [9]. - Recent discoveries in Hebei Province, such as the Zhengjiagou site, provide new insights into the continuity and evolution of the Hongshan culture [9]. Group 3: Tourism and Cultural Heritage - The Niuhe Liang National Archaeological Park has become a prominent cultural tourism destination in Liaoning, with visitor numbers steadily increasing, reaching approximately 200,000 in 2025 [11][12]. - The park features various facilities, including museums and interactive exhibits, enhancing visitor engagement with the ancient culture [11]. - Ongoing preservation efforts are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the 51 archaeological sites within the park, ensuring that cultural heritage is protected while promoting tourism [11].