Ancient City of Malikewate

　　Introduction            Located on the west bank of the Yurungkash River, about 25 kilometers southeast of Hotan City, it is said to be the site of the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Khotan during the Han Dynasty, boasting a history of over 1,500 years. The ruins stretch approximately 1,500 meters from north to south, with the eastern and western ends wider at the top and narrower at the bottom—measuring 750 meters and 450 meters respectively. Hundreds of stone bases are scattered across the site, densely clustered in the southwest, likely marking the location of government offices. These bases suggest the grandeur of the original above-ground structures. In the center of the ruins lies the remains of pottery kilns, believed to have been part of the commercial and industrial area. The northeast section might have been residential, and Buddhist temples were also located here. Surrounded by sand dunes, the site offers views that reach as far as the shadowy outline of the Kunlun Mountains. A large number of ancient coins, such as Han Dynasty wuzhu coins, have been unearthed here, along with bronze Buddha statues, jade artifacts, clay sculptures, and murals.

　　 Hotan, Xinjiang