In the 1980s, archaeologists uncovered the untouched tomb of Zhao Mo, the second ruler of the Nanyue Kingdom, in Guangzhou, located in the Chinese mainland's Guangdong Province. Among an array of fascinating artifacts, a Persian-styled silver box adorned with delicate floral motifs immediately caught attention.
This remarkable treasure, alongside African ivory and fragrant frankincense from the Red Sea, reveals that over 2,000 years ago, Guangzhou was already a bustling global trade hub connecting diverse regions like Persia and Africa. 😲✨
Zhao Mo's tomb has reshaped our understanding of ancient history, portraying the Nanyue people as early global shoppers who effortlessly bridged Eastern and Western cultures well before modern globalization became a trend. Today, Guangzhou’s modern skyline carries forward that heritage, echoing its past as a vibrant gateway between worlds.
This captivating discovery reminds us that trade and cultural exchange have always been at the heart of human innovation, proving that connections across deserts, seas, and centuries are timeless.
Reference(s):
How a Persian silverware ended up in Guangzhou 2,000 years ago
cgtn.com
