Archeologists recently discovered an ancient group of tombs of considerable size, containing three tombs from the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) and four from the Tang Dynasty (618-907), in Xuanhua County of north China's Hebei Province.

Archeologists said the group of tombs were found at a construction site. Several tombs lost their top parts, which were apparently taken by grave looters.

One tomb from the Han Dynasty is of 98.7 square meters, and owns as many as eight coffin chambers. Another Han tomb is 18.6 meters in length and 10.3 meters in width. Tombs of this size are not frequently seen in Hebei.

Archeologists have found delicate pots, stoves, pigs and dogs of pottery as well as wine cups, bowls, plates, and long tables in the three Han tombs.

An official from the relics and antiques protection bureau of Xuanhua County said the tomb cluster was first found in the countyseat by a construction team.

(Xinhua News Agency May 10, 2005)