Eight sites with evidence of Paleolithic and Neolithic human activities have been discovered during the third general cultural relic survey conducted by Qinglong County, according to related departments on Nov. 30.

Through the analysis of collected stone tools, pottery fragments and broken animal bone fossils, archeological experts have initially ascertained that the unearthed stone tools were made about 10,000 years ago, implying that the history of human activities in Qinglong County may date back to as far as 10,000 years ago.

Under the help and guidance from the Guizhou Provincial Cultural Relic Department and the Guizhou Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, personnel from Qinglong’s related departments formed the third general cultural relic survey team and investigated underground relics.

They have collected various types of cultural relics in Bihen Village of Bihen Town, Jichang Town, Datian Township and Porong Village of Shazi Town. Among them, there are more than 100 Paleolithic chipped stone tools, one Neolithic polished stone tool, a pottery fragment with string patterns, a pottery fragment without string patterns, five animal remains of three species of cattle, horses and deer as well as plenty of broken animal bone fossils.

Investigators have also found burned bones, carbon dust and sintering soil particles within the accumulation horizon. Wang Xinjin, a research fellow from the Guizhou Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, said that the stone tool samples discovered in Qinglong have existed for more than 10,000 years.

The significant discoveries have not only filled the gap in Qinglong’s prehistoric archaeology but also provided new material and scientific evidence for the research of the distribution of the Paleolithic and Neolithic culture as well as regional culture in Guizhou.