Ancient Military Sites Discovered in Central China's Henan Province

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 ◆ Ancient Military Sites Discovered in Central China's Henan Province

The ruins of nine military forts, believed to be built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), have been discovered in a scenic zone in central China's Henan Province.

Archaeologists said these forts were military camps during the Ming Dynasty.

Built on nine mountain peaks in the Qinglongxia Scenic Zone in Xiuwu County, each of the camps covers an area ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 square meters. The fort walls were all built with block stones and slab stones.

Archaeologists found intact walls and gates at one camp site, and the ruins of more than 30 small barracks at another, where an inscription on a stone tablet shows that the camp was built in 1638.

They also found a small seasonal river linking the nine camps. Along the small river are dozens of water cellars. Researches show that these water cellars supplied drinking water for soldiers.

Experts said that the discovery has provided precious materials for studying military defense in ancient times.