Tomb of the Forty Maidens

Tomb of the Forty Maidens

Tomb of the Forty Maidens

The Tomb of the Forty Maidens is located in a poplar forest 10 kilometers southeast of Xihe in the 50th Regiment. Era: 15th–17th century. Designated as a municipal cultural heritage site on April 28, 2005.

The burial site spans approximately 15,000 square meters, and within the area, numerous circles and mounds formed or stacked from poplar branches can be seen—about 40 in total. The branches are adorned with colorful strips of cloth. To the east of the burial ground stands a dilapidated house with its door locked. In front of the house is a simple awning. According to our guide, this was the residence of a grave keeper who had tended the site for decades, surviving on alms from devotees. During this survey, the grave keeper was not seen; the guide mentioned that he passed away last year. As for the origin of the tomb, there is also a beautiful and touching legend. It is said that 40 beautiful maidens were buried here collectively. While the legend remains unverifiable, judging by the structure and features of the burial site, it clearly reflects local tomb characteristics typical of the 15th–17th centuries.