Chinese archaeologists have discovered more than 360 tombs dating back more than 1,700 years in southwest China's Yunnan Province.

Located in Chengjiang County, the tombs were found around a 56-meter high hill, covering a total area of 8,000 square meters. The tombs are believed to be built in the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220).

Archaeologists have so far carried out excavation on some 17 tombs and unearthed over 40 pieces of historical relics in three catalogues: living utensil, farming tools and weapons.

According to Yang Jie, director of a local archaeological research team, four large-scale tombs among the excavated graves had been robbed during ancient time, resulting in great losses in archaeological study.

The historical relics, including button-shaped adornment, bronze hoe, bronze sword, chinaware and painted earthenware, will provide valuable clues to the study of ethnic culture in southwest China, Yang said.

But owners of these tombs didn't share high social status in the dynasty, the expert added. The comprehensive excavation on the tombs will continue until the end of April.
 
(Xinhua News Agency April 3, 2006)