Shangjing Longquanfu
Country: China
Region: Asia
Period: 10th-12th c.CE
Location: 44.1306°N, 129.1417°E
Description
Shangjing Longquanfu was the capital of the Liao Dynasty (907–1125 CE), located in present-day Inner Mongolia, China. The city was a hub of political, cultural, and military activity during the height of the Liao Dynasty, which was established by the Khitan people. The city was strategically placed to oversee trade routes and provide protection against invasions from the north. Today, this ancient capital is known for its archaeological sites and remains, which reveal much about the Khitan people’s lifestyle, governance, and culture. Shangjing Longquanfu played a significant role in the administration and the development of the Liao Empire, serving as both the heart of the dynasty and a symbol of Khitan dominance in Northern China.
Modern Remains
The modern-day remains of Shangjing Longquanfu are primarily archaeological, with excavations revealing the foundations of buildings, roads, and city walls from the Liao period. The Ruins of Shangjing Longquanfu are now a designated historical site, attracting tourists interested in the ancient capital of the Khitan people. Key remnants include the Longquan Temple Ruins, which provide insight into the religious practices of the time, and fortified city walls, which reveal the military strategies of the Liao Dynasty. In the surrounding area, visitors can find historical sites like the Khitan Cultural Museum, where artifacts related to the Liao Dynasty and Khitan heritage are displayed. Although much of the city was abandoned after the Liao Dynasty’s fall, ongoing excavations continue to uncover valuable information about life in the capital during the 10th to 12th centuries.