Erlitou refers to an important archaeological site located in central China, specifically in the Yanshi District of Henan Province. The term "Erlitou" can be used to describe three distinct elements: an ancient city, a cultural phase, and a Bronze Age archaeological culture.
As an ancient city, Erlitou denotes the remains of a prehistoric urban settlement, believed to have been the political, economic, and cultural center of the Erlitou culture. It dates back to approximately 1900-1500 BCE, making it one of the earliest large-scale urban settlements in China.
In terms of a cultural phase, Erlitou represents a transitional period between the late Neolithic and early Bronze Age in ancient China. It is characterized by the emergence of advanced bronze metallurgy, social complexity, stratification, and increase in agricultural production.
Lastly, as a Bronze Age archaeological culture, Erlitou refers to the material artifacts, architectural structures, and burial practices associated with this ancient Chinese civilization. Archaeological excavations have revealed palace foundations, city walls, tombs, ritual sites, bronze tools, pottery, jade artifacts, and ornate bronze vessels, all of which provide valuable insights into the technological, economic, religious, and artistic achievements of the Erlitou culture.
Overall, the term "Erlitou" encompasses an archaeological site, cultural phase, and Bronze Age civilization that played a pivotal role in shaping the early development of Chinese civilization, marking a crucial transition from Neolithic to Bronze Age societies.
