Students from Zhengzhou University's (ZZU) archaeology program are uncovering layers of history at the Nancheng site in Xingyang, Henan. With trowels and brushes in hands, these young researchers are gaining hands-on experience in one of China's most artifact-rich regions.
ZZU archaeology students excavate at a field site. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]
Over the past year, students have worked alongside professional archaeologists to identify 526 remains at various sites, ranging from the Longshan and Erlitou cultures to the Qin (221-206 BC) and Han (206 BC-AD 220) dynasties.
The fieldwork also extends to the laboratory. At ZZU's "Zhonghuayuan" Archaeology Lab, samples are analyzed using advanced equipment. The lab houses one of China's most extensive collections of ancient human remains, with over 10,000 specimens from more than 100 sites along the Yellow River basin.
Archaeology at ZZU has evolved beyond traditional methods. Interdisciplinary research—including ancient DNA analysis, environmental archaeology, and stable isotope studies — is now standard practice. The team has confirmed that bronze artifacts from the Gouwan site are the earliest known in the Yangtze River basin, and identified the Guanzhuang site as the world's oldest known mint workshop.
ZZU archaeology students participate in a field excavation. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]
Over the course of five decades, the program has produced over 1,600 graduates, many of whom now work at major heritage sites across China. The current generation of students continues this tradition, gaining both practical skills and academic knowledge through fieldwork at sites like Nancheng. Their work contributes to a deeper understanding of China's ancient civilizations and helps preserve the archaeological heritage of the Central Plains.
ZZU archaeology students catalog artifacts recovered from the site. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]