A memorial facility devoted to emperors Yan and Huang, believed to be the founders of the Chinese nation, has started for construction in Zhengzhou, capital of central China's Henan Province.

It will be the largest of the kind in completion, said the city government sources.

The memorial facility is being built around a hill on the southern bank of the Yellow River or about 30 km northwest of Zhengzhou. It will consist of a large plaza, an altar and two statues for Emperor Yan, also known as Emperor Shennong, and Emperor Huang, or the Yellow Emperor.

The project will cost 120 million yuan (about US$14.46 million), with investment from a Hong Kong businessman who asked for anonymity. The first phase of the project will be completed next April.

(Xinhua News Agency June 13, 2005)