Core Insights - The Beijing Municipal Committee has officially released the proposal for the 15th Five-Year Plan, which includes the promotion of the Liulihe site for World Cultural Heritage status [1] - The archaeological discoveries at the Liulihe site have been recognized as significant, with the site being referred to as the "source of Beijing" and showcasing the earliest urban civilization in the region [2] Archaeological Discoveries - The Liulihe site has yielded numerous artifacts, including bronze vessels and jade items, with over a hundred cultural relics discovered during recent excavations [2] - Notable findings include a small noble tomb with an area of only 7 square meters, which contained bronze artifacts, indicating the site's historical significance [2] - The site has been recognized in various archaeological accolades, including being selected as one of the top ten archaeological discoveries in 2024 [4] Cultural Significance - The Liulihe site is crucial for understanding the early urban planning and social structures of the Western Zhou Dynasty, revealing a dual city wall structure that was previously unrecognized [6][7] - The excavation has also uncovered a small-scale commoner cemetery, allowing researchers to reconstruct family trees and social relationships among the inhabitants [7] Preservation and Future Plans - The preservation efforts for the Liulihe site are ongoing, with significant land reclamation completed to protect the core area of the site [9] - The site has been included in the list of national archaeological parks, and preparations for its nomination as a World Cultural Heritage site are underway [9]

Core Viewpoint - The "Taibao Yongyan - Liuli River Site Special Exhibition" at the Capital Museum has attracted a large number of visitors, showcasing significant archaeological findings from the Liuli River site, which is crucial for understanding the early capital of the Yan state during the Western Zhou period [1][4]. Group 1: Archaeological Background - The archaeological investigation of the Liuli River site began in 1962, with significant excavations occurring in the 1970s, leading to the discovery of national treasures such as the Boju Li and Jin Ding bronze vessels [1][4]. - The early work of archaeologists during a time of material scarcity is highlighted as particularly commendable, providing essential evidence for identifying the site as the earliest capital of the Yan state [1][4]. Group 2: Key Discoveries - The first archaeological survey in 1962 led to the discovery of 14 new sites and the re-examination of 4 previously known sites, marking a significant step in understanding the region's historical context [4][5]. - Notable artifacts include the Boju Li, which features intricate bull head designs and is considered a masterpiece of early Western Zhou bronze craftsmanship, and the Jin Ding, which provides insights into the political and cultural exchanges of the time [11][12][13]. Group 3: Excavation Details - The excavation efforts from 1973 to 1977, led by archaeologist Guo Ren, resulted in the unearthing of nearly 70 tombs and numerous artifacts, including bronze ritual vessels, which are indicative of the burial practices and social hierarchy of the Yan state [15]. - The findings from the yellow earth slope cemetery area suggest it served as the burial ground for the Yan royal family, further establishing the site's historical significance [15].

Core Viewpoint - The Liuli River site has been recognized as one of the top ten archaeological discoveries in China for 2024, showcasing significant findings from the Western Zhou period, including bronze artifacts that highlight the cultural and historical importance of the site [1]. Exhibition Highlights - The exhibition titled "Taibao Yong Yan - Special Exhibition of Liuli River Site" features 180 precious artifacts, including the largest and heaviest bronze ritual vessel, the Jin Ding, which weighs over 40 kilograms [1][4]. - The exhibition is the first public display of the artifacts since the site received the highest award in Chinese archaeology [1]. Artifacts and Their Significance - The Jin Ding and Boju Li are highlighted as national treasures, with inscriptions that narrate stories from over 3,000 years ago, reflecting the advanced material civilization of the Beijing area during the Western Zhou period [4][5]. - The Boju Li, adorned with seven bull heads, represents the pinnacle of Western Zhou bronze art in Beijing, with inscriptions detailing royal rewards and rituals [5][6]. Historical Context - The artifacts provide insights into the spiritual world of the Yan people, emphasizing their reverence for heaven and earth, and showcasing the cultural characteristics of the Yan state [6]. - The exhibition also features a group of bronze vessels known as "Zuo Ce Huan," which document significant historical events related to the construction of the capital city, providing evidence of Beijing's urban history over 3,000 years [9][10]. New Discoveries - A set of newly discovered bronze artifacts, including a unique combination of human face-shaped decorations, adds to the understanding of Yan culture and its artistic expressions [11]. - The exhibition includes a rare reunion of two bronze gui vessels, which were found to have been mixed up during burial, providing valuable evidence for the study of naming conventions in the Western Zhou period [14][15]. Cultural Representation - The exhibition utilizes modern technology, such as 3D projections and digital sand tables, to recreate the life in the Western Zhou Yan capital, enhancing the visitor experience [10]. - The artifacts collectively illustrate a vivid picture of ancient society, showcasing the craftsmanship and cultural practices of the Yan state [10].

Core Insights - The article highlights the 80th anniversary of the Liulihe site discovery and the ongoing archaeological efforts that have established Beijing's 3,000-year history of urban development [1][8][24] Archaeological Discoveries - The Liulihe site, located in Fangshan District, Beijing, was discovered in 1945 during a construction project, leading to significant archaeological findings [1][5] - Initial excavations in the 1970s revealed a large ancient city site and over 200 Western Zhou tombs, along with numerous bronze artifacts [5][7] - The site has yielded important artifacts, including the largest bronze vessel found in Beijing, weighing 41.5 kg and standing 62 cm tall [5][7] Historical Significance - The discoveries at Liulihe have redefined the understanding of Beijing's history, pushing back the timeline of urban settlement to approximately 3,035 years ago [8][11] - Artifacts with inscriptions have confirmed the existence of the Yan state and its early capital in the region, providing insights into the social structure and governance of the time [9][11] Museum and Public Engagement - The establishment of the Western Zhou Yan Capital Site Museum in 1995 has played a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the findings from the Liulihe site [12][13] - The museum has hosted significant exhibitions, attracting visitors and educational groups, thereby enhancing public awareness of the historical significance of the site [13][15] Ongoing Research and Future Plans - Continuous archaeological work at the Liulihe site has led to new discoveries, including bronze vessels and other artifacts, further supporting its status as the starting point of Beijing's urban history [24][22] - Plans for the construction of a large archaeological park are underway, aimed at preserving the site and enhancing its educational and recreational value [19][21][24]

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Tai Baoyong Yan - Special Exhibition of Fangshan Liuli River Site" marks the 80th anniversary of the discovery of the Liuli River site, showcasing significant archaeological findings and cultural heritage from the Western Zhou Dynasty [1][6]. Group 1: Exhibition Highlights - The exhibition features 180 artifacts, with 113 items being publicly displayed for the first time, making it the largest and highest-standard exhibition of the Liuli River site [1][2]. - A key highlight is the "Ding Tian Li Di" combination of national treasures, including the Jin Ding, the largest and heaviest bronze ritual vessel found in Beijing, standing 62 cm tall and weighing 41.5 kg, which bears inscriptions detailing historical events [2][3]. - The exhibition also includes the Bo Ju Li, a bronze vessel adorned with intricate bull motifs, showcasing advanced artistic design and casting techniques from the early Zhou period [2][3]. Group 2: Archaeological Significance - The artifacts, such as the "Zuo Ce Huan" bronze vessels, provide evidence of the earliest documentation of Beijing's city construction history, linking to the historical figure of Shao Gong and the establishment of the Yan state [2][3]. - Recent archaeological findings indicate that the Yan capital had a "double city wall structure," covering an area of up to one million square meters, comparable to the Zhouyuan site in Shaanxi, highlighting the importance of the Liuli River site in understanding the Western Zhou state and urban systems [3][6]. Group 3: Community Engagement and Cultural Value - The exhibition includes a public voting area for the design plan of the Liuli River National Archaeological Site Park, encouraging community involvement in the future planning of the site [4]. - A creative cultural product exhibition area has been established, featuring non-heritage crafts and designs from Fangshan District, allowing visitors to take home a piece of history [4][6]. - The Liuli River site is recognized as a significant historical witness to over 3,000 years of urban civilization in Beijing and is included in major archaeological discoveries, emphasizing its cultural and social value [6].

Core Points - The "Taibao Yongyan - Fangshan Liulihe Site Special Exhibition" has opened at the Capital Museum, focusing on the Liulihe site, which is the largest known Western Zhou site in the Yanshan southern foothills and has the longest excavation history in China [1][3] - The exhibition highlights the Liulihe site as evidence of the Western Zhou feudal system and the capital of the Yan state, pushing the history of Beijing's city construction back over 3,000 years, earning it the title "Source of Beijing City" [3] - The exhibition features 180 selected precious cultural relics, with 113 items being exhibited for the first time, marking a significant proportion in recent exhibitions at the Capital Museum [3] Exhibition Details - The exhibition includes important artifacts such as the Jin Ding and Bo Ju Ge, as well as items that substantiate the Yan state's initial feudal status, like Ke Le and Ke Lei [3] - This is the first large-scale gathering of artifacts unearthed from the Liulihe site since the 1970s, providing a rare opportunity for public viewing [3] - Educational activities, such as "Meeting Bo Ju Ge," are planned during the exhibition to engage audiences, especially families, in understanding the exquisite bronze casting techniques and the profound cultural significance of the Western Zhou period [3] - The exhibition will run until November 28, 2025 [3]

Core Viewpoint - The Liuli River site is recognized as the largest known Western Zhou site in the southern Yanshan region of Beijing, marking the origin of Beijing's city history over 3,000 years ago, and is celebrated as the "source of Beijing city" [1][5][21]. Summary by Sections Exhibition Overview - The "Taibao Yongyan - Liuli River Site Special Exhibition" at the Capital Museum showcases the most comprehensive archaeological findings from the Liuli River site in 80 years, featuring a total of 180 precious artifacts, with 113 items being exhibited for the first time [5][6]. - The exhibition is divided into four sections: "Mandate of the Northern Frontier," "Establishment of the Yan Capital," "Ding Tian Li Di," and "Inheritance and Continuity," revealing the historical and archaeological significance of the site [1][5]. Archaeological Significance - The excavation of the Liuli River site has played a crucial role in understanding the early feudal state of Yan, confirming the specific location of the northern Yan territory mentioned in historical texts [3][5]. - The site has yielded significant findings, including multiple city walls, large buildings, complete burial areas, and inscriptions, showcasing a wealth of artifacts such as exquisite bronze, lacquered wood, jade, primitive porcelain, and pottery [5][24]. Key Artifacts - Notable artifacts include the Jin Ding, the largest and heaviest bronze ritual vessel from the Beijing area, and the Niutouwen Daitou Boju Li, recognized as one of China's most beautiful bronze vessels [6][19]. - The exhibition features three bronze vessels inscribed with "Taibao Yongyan," serving as undeniable textual evidence of Beijing's early city history [10][13]. Historical Context - The Liuli River site, located in the Fangshan District, covers an area of approximately 5.25 square kilometers and has been subject to extensive archaeological work since its discovery in 1945 [21][24]. - The site was confirmed as the capital of the Yan state during the Western Zhou period, with significant discoveries made during excavations, including 69 tombs and chariot pits [23][24]. Recent Developments - Recent archaeological efforts have revealed the existence of an outer city moat and walls, expanding the site’s scale from less than 600,000 square meters to approximately 1 million square meters [24][25]. - The site has been selected as one of the "Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries of 2024," highlighting its importance in understanding the early urban development of Beijing [25]. Cultural Engagement - The exhibition includes a creative design area for public participation in the planning of the Liuli River archaeological park, allowing visitors to engage with the historical narrative [25][26]. - A cultural and creative product area has been established, featuring non-heritage crafts and designs that reflect the regional civilization of Fangshan, enabling visitors to take home a piece of history [26].

Core Viewpoint - The "Taibao Yongyan - Liuli River Site Special Exhibition" at the Capital Museum showcases 180 precious cultural relics, marking the most comprehensive and highest standard exhibition of archaeological findings from the Liuli River site in 80 years, and is the first exhibition of the "2024 Annual Top Ten New Archaeological Discoveries in China" [1][3]. Summary by Sections Exhibition Overview - The exhibition runs from August 28 to November 28, featuring 180 artifacts that illustrate the historical significance of the Liuli River site, which is considered the "source of Beijing city" [1]. - It is the first exhibition in the "Beijing Historical and Cultural Exhibition" series at the Capital Museum [1]. Artifacts and Their Significance - Among the 180 artifacts, 39 are categorized as important relics, representing one of the highest proportions in recent years, with 113 items being publicly exhibited for the first time [3]. - The exhibition includes significant items such as the Jin Ding, the largest and heaviest bronze ritual vessel found in Beijing, and the Niutouwen Daigebuju, recognized as one of China's most beautiful bronze artifacts [4][3]. Thematic Structure - The exhibition is divided into four sections: "Receiving Orders from the Northern Frontier," "Establishment of Yandu," "Ding Tian Li Di," and "Inheritance and Continuity," focusing on archaeological achievements and cultural heritage protection from the Liuli River site [3]. - It aims to reveal the mysterious past of the Liuli River site through a historical and archaeological narrative that integrates text, capital, and artifacts [3]. Notable Discoveries - The exhibition features three bronze vessels inscribed with "Taibao Yongyan," which provide undeniable textual evidence of Beijing's city-building history, pushing the timeline back over 3,000 years [9][11]. - The "one mistake for three thousand years" artifacts, the Boyu Gui and the Yu Gui, are also displayed, showcasing their historical significance and the confusion in their burial context [9][11]. Interactive and Educational Features - The exhibition incorporates multimedia interactions, allowing visitors to engage with the artifacts and the historical context of the Liuli River site [12]. - A creative space features 116 unique cultural products inspired by the Liuli River site, enhancing visitor experience and connection to the historical elements [12]. Community Engagement and Future Plans - The exhibition includes a message book for visitors to share their thoughts, fostering community involvement in the narrative of the Liuli River site [14][15]. - Future plans for the Liuli River Archaeological Park are underway, with design proposals being collected from the public to shape the site's development [15].

Core Points - The article discusses the "Taibao Yong Yan - Special Exhibition of the Liuli River Site," which celebrates the 80th anniversary of the discovery of the Liuli River archaeological site, recognized as the earliest urban relic in the Beijing area [2][3] - The exhibition features a total of 170 artifacts, with 39 significant items, including the first public display of 113 artifacts, highlighting the importance of the site in the history of urban development in Beijing [2][3] - The exhibition showcases three important ritual vessels known as the Zuocai Huan Ding, Zuocai Huan You, and Zuocai Huan Zhi, which bear the inscription "Taibao Yong Yan," filling a gap in the historical record of urban design during the Bronze Age [2][3] Artifact Highlights - The exhibition includes the Jin Ding and Boju Li, which are considered national treasures and represent the pinnacle of bronze culture development in the Beijing area [3] - The Jin Ding is noted for being the largest and heaviest bronze vessel discovered in Beijing, while the Boju Li is recognized for its unique design and craftsmanship [3] - The exhibition is organized into four thematic units: "Receiving Orders from the Northern Frontier," "Establishment of the Yan Capital," "Ding Tian Li Di," and "Inheritance and Continuity," utilizing modern technology to recreate the life scenes of the Western Zhou Yan state [3][4] Future Developments - The article mentions the ongoing planning for the Liuli River Archaeological Site Park, with three design proposals currently on display for public voting [4] - This initiative aims to create a public archaeological park along the Dashi River in Liuli River Town, enhancing the cultural and historical significance of the site [4]

Core Insights - The article highlights the significance of the Liulihe site in Beijing, recognized as the earliest urban relic in the region, dating back over 3,000 years, and its upcoming exhibition celebrating its 80th anniversary [1][2] Exhibition Details - The "Taibao Yong Yan" exhibition at the Capital Museum will showcase a total of 170 artifacts, including 39 important items, with 113 pieces being displayed for the first time [1] - The exhibition features three significant bronze vessels, which have been selected as part of the "Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries of 2024" [2] Historical Significance - The inscription "Taibao Yong Yan" on the bronze vessels fills a gap in the historical record of urban design during the Bronze Age, indicating the construction of a capital city by Taibao Shaogong in the Yan region [4][5] - The discovery of a "double city wall" structure at the Yan capital site provides crucial insights into the state formation and urban systems of the Western Zhou dynasty [5] Notable Artifacts - The exhibition includes the largest and heaviest bronze artifact found in Beijing, the Jin Ding, and the uniquely shaped Bo Ju Li, representing the pinnacle of bronze culture in the region [6] - The Jin Ding, weighing 41.5 kg and standing 62 cm tall, features a 26-character inscription detailing historical events related to food offerings and rewards [8] - The Bo Ju Li, known for its intricate design, stands 33 cm tall and showcases detailed bull motifs, highlighting the craftsmanship of the period [10] Community Engagement - The exhibition also features design proposals for the Liulihe Archaeological Park, allowing visitors to vote on their preferred designs, fostering community involvement in the planning process [14]