Top 6 archaeological discoveries of 2024 released

6. The site groups of porcelain making from Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province

Last year, excavations were carried out on 14 archaeological sites, focusing on the development of the ceramic industry in the town area, the sources of raw materials, sources of fuel, road transportation network and diverse religious beliefs, with a total excavation area of 2275 square meters. Based on the studies, the era is determined to range from the late Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) to modern times.

The discoveries provide first-hand data for studying various aspects such as the appearance of Jingdezhen's ceramic industry over six centuries, the absorption and advancement of diverse ceramic production technologies, the unique art reflected in the reuse of kiln bricks in urban architecture, the expansion of communities and diversification of beliefs resulting from handicraft development, the reclamation of land along the Changjiang River's east bank to form residential areas, and the underground management of urban drainage networks reflecting land utilization.