Liao Dynasty Chariot Burial Found

Archaeologists have unearthed a 1,000-year-old chariot burial from the Liao Dynasty (AD 916–1125) in Inner Mongolia, a discovery that sheds light on the ancient nomadic Khitan people who once ruled a vast region of northern China. The well-preserved chariot, along with the human remains and burial artifacts found with it, offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural practices and social hierarchy of this lesser-known dynasty.

The Discovery of a Liao Dynasty Chariot Burial

The remarkable find was made in the city of Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, by a team of archaeologists from the Inner Mongolia Archaeological Research Institute, reports 163.com. The burial site, located near the ruins of the ancient Liao capital, Shangjing, was excavated in early August 2024, reports Archaeology Mag from a Xinhua News Agency release. The highlight of the site is a wooden chariot, complete with wheels, that was interred alongside the deceased.

The burial is believed to date back to the Liao Dynasty, a period characterized by the dominance of the Khitan people, a nomadic group that established a powerful empire in northern China. The Liao Dynasty was known for its unique blend of nomadic and sedentary cultures, which is reflected in the artifacts found at the site.

The chariot, measuring approximately 1.7 meters (5.6 feet) long and 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) wide, is an exquisite example of Liao craftsmanship, featuring intricate woodwork that has remarkably survived the passage of time.

The Cultural Significance of the Chariot Burial

Chariot burials are relatively rare in Chinese archaeology, particularly from the Liao Dynasty, making this discovery all the more significant. The presence of a chariot in the burial suggests that the deceased was a person of high status, possibly a member of the Khitan aristocracy or a warrior of considerable rank. In Khitan culture, as in many ancient societies, chariots were symbols of power and prestige, often associated with military prowess and the ruling elite.

The chariot itself would have been a prized possession, used in both warfare and ceremonial events. Its inclusion in the burial indicates that it was intended to accompany the deceased into the afterlife, reflecting the Khitan belief in an existence beyond death where the social status and material wealth of an individual were maintained.

Part of the chariot discovered at Chifeng, Inner Mongolia. (Lü Zhimin/Xinhua News Agency)

Artifacts and Human Remains Found at the Site

Alongside the chariot, the excavation team also uncovered a variety of burial goods, including pottery, metal ornaments, and fragments of silk textiles. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the material culture of the Liao Dynasty, revealing a society that was both sophisticated and deeply connected to the broader cultural and economic networks of East Asia.

The human remains found at the site, though not yet fully analyzed, are believed to belong to an adult male, further supporting the hypothesis that this was the burial of a high-status individual. The skeletal remains, along with the associated grave goods, are currently being studied to determine more about the identity and lifestyle of the deceased, as well as the broader context of the burial practices of the Liao Dynasty.

The Legacy of the Khitan and the Liao Dynasty

The Liao Dynasty, founded by the Khitan people in AD 916, played a crucial role in the history of China and its neighboring regions. The Khitan were a semi-nomadic people who managed to establish a powerful empire that controlled much of what is now northern China, Mongolia, and parts of Russia. The Liao Dynasty is notable for its unique fusion of nomadic and sedentary traditions, which is evident in its art, architecture, and burial practices.

Despite their significant contributions to Chinese history, the Khitan and their dynasty have often been overshadowed by other, more well-known Chinese dynasties such as the Tang and Song. However, discoveries like the chariot burial in Inner Mongolia help to bring the history and culture of the Khitan people to the forefront, offering new perspectives on the diversity and complexity of ancient China.

Top image: Overview of the Liao Dynasty chariot burial found at Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, China.          Source: Lü Zhimin/Xinhua News Agency

By Gary Manners