
Shang royal tombs
Shang royal tombs are ancient burial sites from China’s Shang Dynasty (circa 1600–1046 BCE), designed to honor and preserve the legacy of kings and nobles. These tombs often contain elaborate chambers filled with grave goods such as bronzes, jade, pottery, and jewelry, reflecting their status and beliefs about the afterlife. They were constructed with careful planning and sometimes included ritual pits and sacrificial items. Archaeologists uncover these tombs to learn about Shang society, technology, and religious practices, providing valuable insights into early Chinese civilization and its sophisticated burial customs.