A plain that echoes with legends

"These oracle bones can be clearly dated, and contain valuable information, making them rare documents in the study of Western Zhou history," Chong says.

According to Xu Lianggao, a researcher at the Institute of Archaeology of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the Western Zhou Dynasty may have had multiple capital cities. Historical records also mention different names for the Zhou. "What relationships exist between these versions of the Zhou? It could also be differences in functional nature. Recent findings at Zhouyuan may provide key answers," Xu says.

Lei Xingshan, an archaeology professor at Beijing Union University, says that the Xia (c. 21st century-16th century BC), Shang and Zhou (c. 11th century-256 BC) dynasties, dubbed "the Three Dynasties", marked the crucial period in the early stages in nation formation.

"It has always been a focus of Chinese archaeology. Zhouyuan stands out as an example that reflects how various cultures merge in Chinese civilization," Lei says.

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn