“Junior Archaeologists” Visit Zhouqiao Bridge Site in Kaifeng

What is archaeology? Why do we engage in archaeology? To help people truly understand archaeology, the Henan Provincial Institute of Cultural Heritage and Archaeology (HPICHA), in collaboration with Dahe Daily, launched a public archaeology event. The first stop was the Zhouqiao Bridge site in Kaifeng. As “Junior Archaeologists,” twenty young reporters from Dahe Daily went to Kaifeng to see the site up close, where archaeological excavations were underway. They gained an in-depth understanding of archaeologists’ routine work and experienced related archaeological activities.

On the morning of May 11, the 20 young reporters arrived at the excavation site. Staff members from the Zhouqiao Bridge site systematically introduced the basics of archaeology and measures for cultural heritage protection. They detailed the excavation process and current status of the site and interpreted a series of archaeological terms. After the reporters acquired a basic understanding of the archaeological workflow, the staff distributed tools such as gloves, trowels, and brushes to them. The participants were then divided into three groups to experience archaeological excavation and cleaning work. During the nearly hour-long experience, the young reporters unearthed and cleaned some porcelain fragments and ancient architectural bricks, among other remnants. They not only enjoyed themselves but also fully appreciated the scientific rigor and arduous work required in archaeology. At noon, the archaeologists at the site provided a specially prepared archaeological lunch for them. In the afternoon, the site staff accepted interviews from the young reporters regarding their experience. They answered questions in a humorous and easy-to-understand manner and encouraged the participants to diligently pursue cultural knowledge and become the pillars of the nation at an early date.

The purpose of holding the “Junior Archaeologists” series of archaeological experience activities for young reporters with Dahe Daily is to enable teenagers to engage with history in a tangible way, understand the origin and evolution of Chinese civilization, and be deeply aware of China’s time-honored history and glorious culture in joyful games and hands-on experience. One young reporter remarked that the activity enriched his historical knowledge and helped him understand what archaeology really is. After the visit, the young reporters took a group photo at the archaeological excavation site, putting an end to the experience activity in laughter.

The event broadened the horizons of the young reporters from Dahe Daily, enriched their historical and cultural knowledge, and deepened their understanding of the profound cultural heritage in Kaifeng, laying a solid foundation for cultivating their spirit of historical exploration in the future.

(Author|Zhou Runshan Review|Liu Haiwang)