Travel in China
Home to the 2,400-year-old Marquis Yi tomb - a full bronze-chime orchestra and the uncorroded sword of Goujian.
The Hubei Provincial Museum houses the 1978 discovery of the tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng (c. 433 BC) - one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. The tomb's intact contents included a complete 65-piece bronze-chime orchestra, still playable after 2,400 years underground.
The museum's most famous single piece is the Sword of Goujian - a bronze sword from the Spring and Autumn period that emerged from its scabbard untarnished and still sharp after 2,000 years in a waterlogged tomb. The blade's rhombic patterns and turquoise inlay are visible in perfect condition.
The museum offers daily performances on replicas of the chime bells (30 RMB, 30 minutes) - a rare opportunity to hear the sound of ancient Chinese court music. The lacquerware, silk and jade from the tomb are equally extraordinary in their freshness.
Highlights
The Chime Bell Orchestra
A complete 65-piece bronze-chime set from 433 BC - still playable.
The Sword of Goujian
A bronze sword uncorroded and still sharp after 2,000 years.
The Bell Performance
Daily concerts on replica chimes - the sound of ancient court music.
The Lacquerware
2,400-year-old painted lacquer in extraordinary condition.
The Marquis Yi Coffin
The massive painted burial coffin from the tomb.
The Jade and Silk
Delicate fabrics and jade ornaments preserved in the waterlogged tomb.
Photo Gallery
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