Han Kings of Chu Tombs Cluster

Kings of Chu Tombs Cluster

The Kings of Chu Tombs Cluster is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Kings of Chu Tombs Cluster – Han Dynasty, Tongshan District, Xuzhou City

Including: 1. Kings of Chu Tombs Cluster on Chuwang Mountain; 2. Kings of Chu Tombs on Lion Mountain along with the accompanying Terracotta Army Pit; 3. Northern Cave Mountain Kings of Chu Tomb; 4. Small Turtle Mountain Kings of Chu Tomb; 5. Tuo Basket Mountain Kings of Chu Tomb; 6. Eastern Cave Mountain Kings of Chu Tomb; 7. Southern Cave Mountain Kings of Chu Tomb; 8. Recumbent Ox Mountain Kings of Chu Tomb.

Among the 12 known tombs of the Western Han Kings of Chu in Xuzhou, the locations of eight have been confirmed, and six have been officially excavated. These tombs were either carved into mountains on a grand scale, distinguished by their architectural design, or renowned for their exquisite artistic carvings. Their interiors feature complex layouts and complete living facilities, essentially forming underground palaces. The largest tomb spans over 800 square meters, and the magnificence, sheer scale of construction, and fine craftsmanship are beyond imagination even by today’s standards. A large number of precious cultural relics have been unearthed from these tombs, including national treasures such as a silver seal inlaid with jade and decorated with gold thread and a turtle-shaped knob.

The smoke of ancient battlefields has long since dissipated, but the remnants of war still stir the imagination. During the Chu-Han contention, Liu Bang and Xiang Yu vied for supremacy. The present-day Xizhima Terrace in downtown Xuzhou was once where Xiang Yu watched his soldiers race and perform with horses. “The ancient battlefield before Jiuli Mountain, where a shepherd boy picks up old swords and spears” – legend has it that Jiuli Mountain, located to the north of downtown Xuzhou, was the site of fierce battles between the Chu and Han forces. It is home to two historical sites: the White Cloud Cave where Xiang Yu is said to have hidden while fleeing after defeat, and the Flag-Raising Stone where Fan Kuai planted the Han army’s banner. Jiuli Mountain has endured the trials of war throughout history. Yet as a direct “witness” to battles across dynasties, it has become a valuable piece of historical and cultural heritage.

Further Reading:

· Fourth Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units