He adds that the integration layout of the residential and burial sites was an urban planning model that was inherited by the subsequent Shang Dynasty (around 1600-1046 BC).

The team is expanding the scope of work to further study the layout and explore its significance, according to Zhao.

Discovered in 1959 by late historian Xu Xusheng, Erlitou is of great reference value for studying the origins of Chinese civilization, the rise of kingdoms, the regulation of ancient capitals and other major issues related to the development of Chinese civilization, according to Chinese archaeologists.

Tens of thousands of items have been unearthed at the Erlitou site. Last year, the Erlitou Relic Museum and a neighboring relic park were completed and opened to visitors for free. The museum houses more than 2,000 relic items, including bronzeware, pottery and jadeware.

Xinhua