Ancient Linzi Archaeological Site

Ancient Linzi was the principal capital of the State of Qi in what is now central Shandong province, China, and flourished during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods (roughly the 7th to 3rd centuries BCE). It is one of the major urban centres of ancient China documented by archaeology.

The site preserves the remains of city walls, streets, workshops and administrative areas along with large burial complexes. Excavations have produced bronze vessels and other material culture that illustrate Linzi’s wealth and its role in ritual and statecraft.

Historically Linzi functioned as the political and economic heart of Qi until the unification of China under Qin. The archaeological remains reflect several centuries of urban development and changing funerary practices.

The ruins lie within modern Linzi District, adjacent to the city of Zibo in Shandong province, on the North China Plain.

• Location: Located within what is now Linzi District of Zibo city in Shandong province, the site marks the political centre of the State of Qi during the late Zhou period.

What to See#

• Ancient city site: The exposed urban remains of the capital of the State of Qi, consisting of foundation walls, street layouts and workshop areas that document an important Iron Age Chinese city.
• Royal cemeteries: Royal burial areas and tumulus cemeteries associated with Qi rulers where bronze and ritual objects have been recovered during excavations.