Core Points - The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has added the Western Xia Tombs to the World Heritage List, bringing China's total to 60 heritage sites [6] - The Western Xia Tombs consist of 9 imperial tombs, 271 accompanying tombs, 32 flood control relics, and over 7,000 unearthed artifacts, covering a protection area of nearly 40 square kilometers [7][8] - The Western Xia Dynasty, established by the Tanguts, existed from 1038 to 1227 and left a significant mark on Chinese civilization despite not being included in the Twenty-Four Histories [7][8] Summary by Sections Historical Significance - The Western Xia Tombs are the largest and most complete imperial tomb complex in China, reflecting the unique cultural identity of the Western Xia Dynasty [7][8] - The dynasty experienced 10 emperors, with only 9 tombs constructed due to the turmoil during its decline [8][9] Archaeological Findings - Excavations since the 1970s have confirmed the identities of some tomb owners, with the most notable being the fifth emperor, Li Renxiao [8][9] - The tombs exhibit traditional Chinese burial practices and are influenced by Feng Shui principles, showcasing advanced flood control measures [9][10] Architectural Features - Each tomb is surrounded by a city wall and includes various structures such as altars and towers, with the tallest burial towers resembling pyramids [10][11] - The accompanying tombs differ significantly in scale and materials, indicating the status of their occupants, primarily royal relatives and nobles [11][12] Cultural Artifacts - A diverse range of artifacts has been unearthed, including stone carvings, metalwork, textiles, ceramics, and architectural components, reflecting the cultural exchange along the Silk Road [12][13] - Notable artifacts include a green-glazed dragon-head ornament and a gilded bronze cow, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era [12][13] Legacy of the Western Xia Dynasty - The Tanguts, the founders of the Western Xia, were a branch of the Qiang ethnic group, and their history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Chinese dynasties [14][15] - Despite its eventual downfall, the legacy of the Western Xia continues to influence the cultural landscape, with remnants of the Tangut people still present in modern China [18]

Core Points - The core viewpoint of the article is the successful inclusion of the Western Xia Tombs in the UNESCO World Heritage List, bringing China's total number of World Heritage sites to 60 [1][28]. Group 1: Heritage Significance - The Western Xia Tombs consist of 4 major constructed elements, including 9 imperial tombs, 271 accompanying graves, and 32 flood control relics, along with a large architectural site related to sacrificial activities [4]. - The site covers an area of 38.99 square kilometers, making it the largest, highest-grade, and best-preserved relic of Western Xia culture [4][9]. - The Western Xia Tombs provide irreplaceable evidence of the Western Xia dynasty, which lasted nearly 200 years, and its role as a hub on the Silk Road during the 11th to 13th centuries [4][7]. Group 2: Archaeological Findings - The site has yielded over 7,000 movable cultural relics, which are crucial for understanding the value of the Western Xia Tombs [15]. - Notable artifacts include a gilded bronze bull weighing 188 kilograms, showcasing advanced casting techniques and reflecting the cultural exchange between nomadic and agricultural societies [17]. - The museum also displays a rare gold headdress weighing over 200 grams, decorated with lotus petal and linked bead patterns, indicating strong influences from Central Plains culture [19]. Group 3: Cultural Insights - The Western Xia script, derived from Chinese characters, is complex and difficult to read, with over 5,800 meaningful characters identified, used during the Western Xia dynasty's rule [25][27]. - The artifacts and inscriptions found at the site provide direct evidence of the political, military, and cultural history of the Western Xia dynasty [23].