Core Points - The article highlights the successful application of the Western Xia Tombs as China's 60th World Heritage site, showcasing its historical significance and archaeological richness [1] - The Western Xia Tombs are recognized as a vital cultural heritage site that reflects the diverse characteristics of Western Xia culture and its integration into the broader context of Chinese civilization [21] Group 1: Archaeological Significance - The Western Xia Tombs consist of 9 imperial tombs and 271 accompanying graves, along with over 7,100 artifacts that provide insights into the society, religion, and art of the Western Xia [1] - The site includes various architectural and flood control relics, indicating advanced engineering and planning [1] Group 2: Cultural Exchange and Influence - The gilded bronze ox discovered at the site exemplifies the advanced metalworking and casting techniques of the Western Xia, as well as their adoption of agricultural practices from the Han Chinese [3] - The Western Xia people created nearly 6,000 characters based on Chinese writing methods, often using both Western Xia and Chinese characters in religious texts and inscriptions, reflecting a high level of literary cultivation [6] Group 3: Artistic and Architectural Features - The dragon column unearthed from Tomb 6 features intricate carvings influenced by Central Plains culture, showcasing the Western Xia's cultural heritage and artistic development [8] - The white-glazed ceramic tiles found at the site demonstrate the integration of techniques from various regions, indicating a sophisticated level of ceramic production [18] Group 4: Trade and Economic Prosperity - The trade between the Song and Western Xia dynasties was facilitated through official and informal markets, with a variety of ceramics found at the tombs indicating a prosperous commercial environment [11]

Core Viewpoint - The inscription of the "Western Xia Tombs" as China's 60th World Heritage site highlights its cultural significance and historical value, marking it as Ningxia's first World Cultural Heritage site [1] Summary by Relevant Sections Historical Context - The Western Xia Dynasty was established in 1038 AD and lasted until 1227 AD, coexisting with the Song, Liao, and Jin dynasties, with its capital located in present-day Yinchuan, Ningxia [1] - At its peak, the Western Xia Dynasty controlled an area of 1.15 million square kilometers and held significant power over the Hexi Corridor [1] Archaeological Significance - The Western Xia Tombs, located on the Helan Mountain alluvial fan, consist of 9 imperial tombs, 271 accompanying graves, and cover an area of nearly 40 square kilometers [1] - Over 7,100 artifacts have been unearthed from the site, including architectural components, stone tablets, ceramics, horse gear, coins, and remnants of murals, with architectural components being the most abundant [1] Cultural Artifacts - Notable artifacts include a large green-glazed "Chiwun" (a type of mythical creature) that reflects the craftsmanship and artistic innovation of the Western Xia, showcasing a blend of Tang and Song styles [5] - The gilded bronze bull, weighing 188 kilograms, exemplifies advanced metalworking techniques and the cultural exchanges between the Western Xia and the Central Plains [11][12] - The red sandstone sculpture of a warrior and the gold-plated decorative items highlight the unique artistic styles and high-level craftsmanship of the Western Xia period [15][16] Linguistic and Cultural Legacy - The Western Xia script, created by Emperor Li Yuanhao, consisted of nearly 6,000 characters, which became largely undecipherable after the dynasty's fall, but significant progress has been made in recent years to understand it [16] - The Western Xia Tombs serve as a crucial testament to the multi-ethnic and multicultural exchanges along the Silk Road, contributing to the understanding of China's diverse historical narrative [16]