Decades of excavation brings Han Dynasty back to life

The plain gauze single garment unearthed from the Mawangdui Han Tombs in Changsha, Hunan province. CHINA DAILY

Fifty years after excavations began at the Mawangdui Han Tombs, new technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence and big data are bringing the ancient society to life and giving people a closer and more immersive interaction with history, archaeological experts said.

Initial excavations at the Mawangdui tombs in Hunan province took place between 1972 and 1974, and represent one of China's most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.

The tombs contain the well-preserved remains of the Marquis Dai's wife, Lady Xin Zhui, who was buried more than 2,000 years ago during the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24).

The tombs have offered up 26,937 artifacts so far, according to Hunan Museum in Changsha.

Unearthed artifacts include Xin Zhui's remains, as well as lacquerware, textiles and bamboo and silk manuscripts.