Chinese archeologists discover remnants of city gate from 12th century Jin Dynasty capital of Zhongdu

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) - Chinese archeologists have discovered remnants of a city gate from the 12th century Jin Dynasty capital of Zhongdu in Beijing, among other discoveries, state media reported on Monday.

Remnants of the city gate, excavated for the first time, provide a valuable reference for understanding the ancient city's layout, Xinhua News reported, citing the Archaeological Research Institute.

"This year's excavation efforts unearthed remnants of Duanli Gate, the southwest gate of the outer city of Jin's capital. It is also a rare, well-preserved, large-scale architectural structure," Ding Lina, a researcher with the institute, was quoted by the news agency as saying.

Zhongdu was the capital of the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234) for over six decades before being abandoned near the end of the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368).

Aside from the city gate, archaeologists discovered “abundant” related remnants of the outer city of Zhongdu—including city walls, moats, and drainage ditches, as well as pottery, porcelain items, bricks, and tiles.

The discoveries also include the oldest stele found in the Jiankou section to date, which provides important insights into the Great Wall's construction and evolution.