URGENT UPDATE: A pivotal conference in Wenzhou, China, has just unveiled groundbreaking discoveries about the ancient Shuomen port site, a key location on the Maritime Silk Road. Held on November 29, 2025, the event showcased significant archaeological findings that could reshape our understanding of this historic trade route.
Experts from the China Academy of Cultural Heritage, National Centre for Archaeology, and various museums gathered to discuss the latest research results. The conference emphasized the cultural importance of the Maritime Silk Road, drawing attention to Wenzhou’s role in preserving its heritage.
During the event, the newly established Wenzhou Institute of Shuomen Ancient Port was inaugurated, coupled with the renaming of the Wenzhou Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology. These developments signify a major commitment to enhancing local cultural heritage protection related to the Maritime Silk Road.
Liang Yanhua, head of the Wenzhou Institute, revealed that recent excavations have uncovered original coastline relics dating back to the Five Dynasties and early Northern Song Dynasty. This discovery fills a crucial chronological gap, providing new insights into the historical significance of the Shuomen ancient port.
The excavation team has also made remarkable progress in defining boundaries of outbound roads and residential zones from the Southern Song Dynasty through the Ming and Qing dynasties. These findings illustrate the intricate spatial integration of the port-city, highlighting Wenzhou’s historical significance as a maritime hub.
In a striking revelation, the team concluded their survey of the No. 2 shipwreck at the Shuomen site, which shows notable differences from ancient ships found in Fujian Province. This suggests the existence of a dedicated shipyard in ancient Wenzhou, further solidifying its maritime legacy.
The discoveries made at this conference not only enrich our understanding of the Maritime Silk Road but also serve as a vital resource for local cultural heritage protection. As Wenzhou aims for World Heritage status, these findings provide tangible proof of its historical significance and cultural richness.
As the excavation efforts continue, the implications of this conference are expected to resonate widely, enhancing both local pride and global interest in the Maritime Silk Road. Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available regarding these significant archaeological findings.
