Chinese archeologists have discovered a number of rare ancient wells in this capital of Hunan Province.

Located in the downtown area, the wells are believed to range from the Warring States period (475-221 BC) to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Among the 30 wells which have been excavated, there are a few belonging to the Warring States period and the Han Dynasty (202 BC-260). Most of them belong to the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties.

The archeologists have recovered nearly 100 relics from the wells, including pottery and porcelain articles.

The findings are expected to provide clues to the study of ancient people's living conditions around the city.

(Xinhua News Agency January 4, 2002)