Xiangbaobao Ancient Tombs

　　    The Xiangbaobao Ancient Tombs are situated on a flat area approximately 2 kilometers north of the autonomous county seat and are commonly known as the “Xiangbaobao Tomb.” To the east of these ancient tombs lies the vast Alar Grassland, through which the Taxkorgan River meanders. Notably, the county’s renowned natural mineral water source — Pamir Mineral Spring — originates at the foot of the Xiangbaobao Ancient Tombs, hence it is also called “Xiangbaobao Spring.” According to two investigations by the Archaeological Research Institute of the Xinjiang Academy of Social Sciences, the Xiangbaobao Ancient Tombs date back to the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods (5th–4th century BCE), belonging to the Qiang and Saka peoples, and are between 2,500 to 4,000 years old.

　　    According to *The Book of Han: Treatise on the Western Regions*, the earthen burial tombs were vertical pit graves covered with wooden planks, whereas cremation tombs had no such coverings. The earthen burials typically contained one or two individuals. Examination of 40 excavated tombs revealed 19 cremation tombs and 21 earth burial tombs. The funerary objects in cremation tombs included bronze earrings, pottery shards, iron fragments, and bird bones. In contrast, the earth burial tombs contained pottery, bronze ware, ironware, gold items, wooden objects, as well as decorative items such as stone, bone, and agate necklaces. Each tomb had up to a dozen artifacts, though usually just a few, predominantly ornaments, followed by household items, while production tools were rare. Among the most valuable ornaments were those engraved with images of Pamir argali sheep heads — the carvings were simple yet vivid, showcasing high artistic value.

　　    Based on unearthed artifacts, the earth burial tombs are attributed to the Saka people, and the cremation tombs to the Qiang people, both exhibiting features of Caucasian descent. It is an excellent destination for archaeological and historical exploration.