The protection project of Zhang Rong's family cemetery site in Jinan was selected as a national outstanding case and was included in the "Outstanding Cases of Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Protection in National Infrastructure Projects", published by the National Cultural Heritage Administration, local media reported.

The National Cultural Heritage Administration recently organized the collection and promotion of outstanding cases in archaeology and cultural heritage protection. A total of 78 cases were recommended nationwide, and after several rounds of review and expert evaluation, 21 excellent cases were selected.

The Zhang Rong's family cemetery site, located in Licheng district, Jinan, was discovered and excavated by the Jinan Archaeological Research Institute in 2021 and 2022.

The written evidence found there suggests that Zhang Rong lived during the Yuan Dynasty (1271 – 1368), once serving as the highest leader of Jinan. The tomb cluster of Zhang's family included at least 32 tombs, brick-carved tombs, chamber tombs, and earthen cave tombs. It is of great significance for studying the burial system of Han Chinese during the Yuan Dynasty, particularly those of royal families and nobles.

The cluster has also been confirmed as the highest-ranking Yuan Dynasty tomb site discovered in China to date, with the most extensive tomb furnishings.

Local authorities have made efforts to protect the site by designating an area for preservation. Measures include mural conservation, tomb reinforcement, digital restoration, and the construction of an above-ground landscape.

A tomb with exquisitely carved brick murals from the Yuan Dynasty in Zhang Rong's tomb cluster. [Photo/provided to english.jinan.gov.cn]