Sanxingdui Archaeological Museum



Sanxingdui, located in the city of Guanghan, 40 km from Chengdu, Sichuan Province, is recognized as one of
the most important ancient remains in the world for its vast size, lengthy period and enriched cultural contents.

The first Sanxingdui relics were discovered by a farmer in 1929 and excavation has continued ever since.
During this period, generations of archaeologists have worked on the discovery and research of the Sanxingdui
culture. In 1986, two major sacrificial pits were found and they aroused widespread academic attention around
the world.

The Sanxingdui finds are exciting, but they remain enigmatic. No texts have been found, nor is there any
mention of this culture in the records of other countries. Analysis of lead and other elements in the bronzes

indicates sources similar to those of other cultures along the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. At this point, however, the unique culture that
produced these artifacts remains a mystery.

The Sanxingdui find is considered a marvel because of its size, age and abundance of relics. The Sanxingdui remains, including two remarkable
sacrificial pits, covers an area of about 12 sq km. The unearthed objects indicate the presence of a strong regional culture with sophisticated
religious practices and advanced bronze-casting technology from 2,800 BC to 800 BC. Sanxingdui culture is thought to have been divided into
three phases. The early phase may have been be more independent, and later phases saw an influences from other neighboring cultures.

The building of the Museum freely blends primitive artistic style with modern vogues. Architecturally a full use of curve and are elements
symbolizes the mound-like remains of Sanxingdui, yellow-colored outer walls representing the earth, and the arch-rising building like the site-
mound with a soaring steeple as its grotesque roof.

The surroundings of the Museum have turned out to be a perfect lay-out for cultural purpose. Here one can
see a large altar for the show of old sacrificial rites, a huge arena for theatrical festivals, an elegant view of
the lake and rockery, and old-fashioned group of minor buildings. Among the attached services are the
convenience of board, recreation and a children's playground. The cultural complex gives a marvelous
chance for a visitor to enjoy the beauty of the Sichuan garden-like park while appreciating the relics
unearthed at Sanxingdui.