Core Insights - The article discusses the archaeological significance of the Chenghu site, highlighting its historical importance and the discoveries made there, particularly related to the Liangzhu culture and its early writing symbols [1][10]. Archaeological Discoveries - Chenghu was originally a lake approximately 45 square kilometers in size, known for its rich archaeological finds, including over 1,200 artifacts from various periods, spanning 5,000 years from the Neolithic to the Tang and Song dynasties [2][11]. - Excavations revealed remnants of a Neolithic settlement from the Songze culture, including housing structures, water systems, and rice paddies, indicating advanced agricultural practices [3][4]. Cultural Artifacts - The artifacts from the Liangzhu culture are particularly notable, featuring pottery that reflects artistic creativity, such as animal-shaped vessels and intricately designed pots with symbolic engravings [4][5][6]. - A significant find includes a pottery vessel with engraved symbols, which has sparked considerable academic interest regarding the origins of Chinese writing, suggesting that these symbols may represent an early form of written language [7][9]. Historical Context - The article outlines the historical evolution of the Chenghu area, noting its prominence during the Wu and Yue states in ancient China, and how it transitioned from a thriving settlement to being submerged under water due to natural and human-induced changes [10][12]. - The formation of Chenghu as a lake is attributed to climatic changes and human activities, particularly during the Song dynasty, which led to significant flooding and the eventual disappearance of the ancient settlements [12][14].

Core Insights - The recent renovation of the Shuangdun Archaeological Site Museum has revealed artifacts that serve as a "diary" of the lives of people from over 7,300 years ago, showcasing their daily activities and production methods [1] - The Shuangdun site, located in the Huaihe River basin, is significant for understanding prehistoric life and the origins of Chinese writing, with over 600 engraved symbols discovered [1][2] - The museum now features a variety of exhibits, including pottery and early agricultural tools, highlighting the historical significance of these artifacts [1] Summary by Sections Archaeological Significance - The Shuangdun site is recognized as a New Stone Age site, dating back approximately 7,300 years, and is referred to as the "light of Huaihe civilization" [1] - The artifacts unearthed, including pottery, stone tools, and engraved symbols, are crucial for studying the lifestyle of prehistoric inhabitants in the Huaihe River region and the origins of Chinese characters [1] Artifacts and Findings - Among the 600 engraved symbols found, they cover various aspects of life, including production, astronomy, and calendar systems, categorized into pictographs and geometric symbols [1][2] - Specific symbols, such as those representing animals and geometric patterns, indicate advancements in agriculture and animal husbandry, suggesting that the Shuangdun people were developing early farming practices [2] Preservation and Public Engagement - To protect these valuable cultural artifacts, an 8,000 square meter protective greenhouse has been constructed over the core area of the site, adhering to a "minimal intervention" principle [2] - The museum includes an interactive experience hall to enhance public understanding of the symbols, allowing visitors, especially students, to engage with the artifacts and interpret the engravings [2] Cultural Connections - The arrangement and sequence of the symbols indicate a level of systematization, with similar symbols found in other contemporary sites in the Huaihe River region, suggesting a shared cultural understanding [3] - The similarities in pottery styles with other cultures, such as Peiligang and Dawenkou, hint at a cross-regional exchange network that existed 7,000 years ago [3]