Laosicheng

Laosicheng, located in Sicheng Village, Hunan Province, China, is an archaeological site of significant historical and cultural value. Once the capital of the Peng clan Tusi, it served as a political and cultural center from 1135 CE until its abandonment in 1724 CE. The site covers an area of 25 square kilometers and includes well-preserved urban features such as road networks and drainage systems. Key archaeological features include the Patriarch Temple, the tombs of Tusi chieftains, and various ancient streets and city walls. As the first World Cultural Heritage site in Hunan province, Laosicheng is recognized for its contributions to our understanding of the Tujia culture and the Tusi chieftain system, offering insights into the socio-political and religious dynamics of the region during the Southern Song to Qing dynasties.