Archaeologists have uncovered what is thought to be the earliest known part of the structure. Great Wall of China , tracing its roots about 300 years further back than initially believed. This significant discovery, found in the Changqing District of Jinan City, Shandong Province, is dated to the latter part of the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 BCE–771 BCE) and the beginning of the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BCE–476 BCE).
As reported by 'Archaeology News', the excavation The excavation carried out by the Shandong Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology from May to December 2024 spanned approximately 1,100 square meters in the north section of Guangli Village. This initiative represents the first comprehensive exploration of the Qi Great Wall following numerous preliminary surveys over the years.
The Qi Great Wall, an earlier version of the renowned Ming Dynasty wall, was erected by the State of Qi during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE). Antedating the Ming Wall by over a thousand years, this structure extends for more than 600 kilometers through Shandong province and was designed to safeguard the state against incursions, notably those from the State of Chu.
The research group employed a combination of conventional artefact Analysis and modern approaches such as optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and radiocarbon dating revealed insights into sophisticated construction methodologies. Built using tamped earth, stones, and various other materials, the structure exemplifies the military prowess of the Qi state well before China was unified under the Qin Dynasty.
The team likewise pinpointed the old settlement of Pingyin City, situated roughly 1.5 kilometers north of the Qi Great Wall. Ancient documents like the 'Zuo Zhuan' and 'Water Classic Commentary' portray Pingyin as an essential bastion for the state of Qi. This city was vital in protecting trade paths and maintaining frontier safety.