Liangzhu Culture and the Ancient City of Liangzhu

This chapter analyzes the significance and characteristics of the Liangzhu culture and the Liangzhu ancient city at Mojiaoshan, beginning with an overview of the geographical layout, followed by discussions of the regional “civilization’s” major characteristics. Special attention is paid to why the ancient Liangzhu city is the center of a regional “civilization” and to an illustration of the advanced system of hydraulic engineering and fortifications at Liangzhu ancient city. Jade-working and its religious context are also analyzed, with clarification of how Liangzhu jades became an everlasting symbol of Chinese civilization.