Jiulong Cliff Tombs

The Jiulong Cliff Tombs: Echoes of the Han Dynasty

The Jiulong Cliff Tombs, a series of ancient mausoleums, stand as testament to the legacy of the Lu kings from the Han Dynasty. These tombs include five cliff tombs at Jiulong Mountain and Ting Mountain in Qufu City, as well as five more at Siji Mountain and Yun Mountain in Zoucheng City, totaling ten cliff tombs. Located in Shandong Province, these tombs are among the most significant cultural relics in the region.

Historical Significance

On December 23, 1977, the Jiulongshan Cliff Tombs in Qufu City were officially recognized as a cultural relic protection unit in Shandong Province. These tombs are not only valuable for their historical context but also for their architectural ingenuity and the rich trove of artifacts they contain.

Architectural Marvels

The tombs exhibit a consistent architectural style. The third tomb from the west on Jiulong Mountain is particularly representative, measuring 72.1 meters deep, 24.3 meters wide, and 18.4 meters high. The entrance features a 37.5-meter-long passage carved from rock and filled with soil post-burial. The tomb structure includes a door, corridor, front room, four-side room, back room, and stone niche. The tomb door is notably robust, being 2.2 meters wide, 2.5 meters high, and 4.5 meters deep, secured by 19 rectangular stones.

Unearthed Cultural Relics

Excavations in 1988 and 1992 revealed a wealth of artifacts. Pottery figurines depicting dancers, laborers, chickens, and dogs were among the finds, alongside iron knives and flower arrangements. The most significant find, however, was the Eastern Han Dynasty storytelling figurine, discovered in June 1986. This clay red pottery figurine stands 55 cm high and 33 cm wide, depicting a joyful figure with a bulging belly, likely engaged in a lively performance.

The Storytelling Figurine

The storytelling figurine is particularly notable for its expressive detail. The figure stands with a naked upper body, wide trousers, and a flower in its hair, with a scarf tied at the forehead. The smile on its face, tongue sticking out, and hands on its belly suggest it is beating its belly like a drum, a vivid portrayal of ancient entertainment.

Myths and Misconceptions

The tombs have also inspired various myths and legends. Bashu Hanyun, a scholar of cliff tombs, suggests that a figure commonly interpreted as a rock-supporting warrior might actually represent a water deity, later mythologized. This figure, seen raising its arms to support the rock, adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the site.

Present Day: Preservation and Access

As of June 10, 2024, the Jiulong Cliff Tombs site is closed to the public, with a padlocked fence barring entry. This measure underscores the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect these invaluable cultural relics for future generations.

Conclusion: A Glimpse into the Past

The Jiulong Cliff Tombs offer a fascinating glimpse into the burial practices and cultural heritage of the Han Dynasty. Through their impressive architecture and the artifacts they hold, these tombs provide a rich historical narrative, preserving the legacy of the Lu kings and the artistic achievements of their time. As scholars continue to study and preserve these sites, the tombs of Jiulongshan stand as a bridge to an ancient world, echoing the stories and lives of those who once walked its sacred grounds.

The site’s location/ coordinates are 35°30’32.70″N, 116°59’37.27″E.

Note there are alternative names given to this place including: Jiulongshan Cliff Tombs and Qufu Jiulong Mountain Cliff Graves.

Sources

Sina

Bendi5

Wikipedia