Culture ruins dating back to 4,500 years in the latter period of the Neolithic Age have been discovered in central China's Hubei Province.

　　Preliminary study of the unearthed artifacts shows that the ruins are a major component of Shijiahe Culture Ruin of the same period.

　　The area of the ruins, located at Yujiacheng Village of Jingshan County, is 350 meters long and 320 meters wide. Most parts of the ruins are in good condition.

　　The excavated artifacts include an elegant stone pestle and pottery such as pots, jars, basins and cups.

　　Archaeologists regard the discovery of the ruins as another important archeological finding in the county, following the excavation of the Qujialing Culture Ruins dating back to 5,000 years.

　　The discovery is of great significance to the study of the development of ancient agriculture and craftsmanship.

(Xinhua 12/20/2000)