Shimao Archaeological Site
石峁遗址
China's largest known prehistoric city site, around 4,000 years old. The stone-walled platform of its Imperial City and its carved stone faces are breathtaking, and it is hailed as one of the most astonishing archaeological finds.
The Shimao Site lies in Gaojiabu Town, Shenmu City. It dates from the late Longshan period to the early Xia dynasty. The city consists of the Imperial City terrace, an inner city and an outer city, covering more than 4 million square metres. It is the largest known prehistoric city site in China and was named one of the '100 Major Archaeological Discoveries of the 20th Century'. The stone-walled retaining structure of the great Imperial City terrace, along with the carved stone faces and jade objects unearthed here, attract the most attention. The Shimao Museum is next to the site. It is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00 to 16:30, and the shuttle bus costs about RMB 25. You can combine your visit with the ancient town of Gaojiabu.
Opening hours
Tue–Sun about 09:00–16:30 (check official sources)