Archaeology more than knowledge of the past

Over the past 100 years, generations of archaeologists have made a series of major discoveries through tireless efforts, playing an important role in making the extensive and profound Chinese civilization better understood.

A series of major archaeological discoveries in the country have revealed the history of the origin and development of the Chinese civilization, as well as its achievements and contributions to world culture. They have increased public awareness of the Chinese civilization and promoted exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.

And these discoveries have highlighted the great contributions made by the Chinese civilization to the civilizations of the world.

In a congratulatory letter on the 100th anniversary of the discovery of the Yangshao Culture in Sanmenxia, Henan province, which is regarded as the beginning of modern archaeology in the country, President Xi Jinping called for developing archaeology with Chinese features, style and ethos last week to better showcase the splendor of the Chinese civilization, as well as carry forward traditional Chinese culture, thus making new and greater contributions to the realization of the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

China’s progress from a major archaeological country to an archaeological power is based on the continuous improvement of its comprehensive national strength. Since the founding of New China, the Party has attached great importance to archaeological work.

Since the launch of reform and opening-up, China’s archaeological work has entered a period of rapid development. The central authorities attach great importance to improving archaeological work so the history of Chinese civilization can be better understood.

The authorities at all levels, as well as the whole society, should firmly establish the concept of the great responsibility of protecting historical and cultural heritage, care for archaeologists, and actively support and guarantee archaeological undertakings, cultural relic protection and historical research.

Archaeological work is important for constructing the history of the Chinese nation and helping Chinese people understand the history of Chinese civilization more comprehensively, as well as promoting exchanges and mutual learning with other civilizations.

It is by no means just the digging up of cultural relics but the hunt for the “treasures” that embody traditional Chinese culture, the value of which is not measurable by money.