Scientists have uncovered another section of the Great Wall of China, revealing it to be older than previously believed. (Photos, videos available)

In the Chinese province of Shandong, archaeologists have unearthed the oldest section of the Great Wall of China, dating back to the late Western Zhou dynasty (1046–771 BC) and the Spring and Autumn period (770–476 BC). This discovery is approximately 300 years earlier than previously thought. It is part of the Qi Wall.

The research was conducted in the Changqing area under the guidance of the Shandong Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology. The excavations, which took place from May to December 2024, utilized modern dating techniques, including optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and radiocarbon analysis.

About 1100 square meters were excavated in the northern part of the village of Guangli. The oldest walls had a thickness of around 10 meters and were later upgraded to a width of over 30 meters during the Warring States period (475–221 BC). Remains of an ancient settlement were also discovered, confirming the wall's role not only for defense but also for habitation.

The Qi Wall is an important section of the Great Wall, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the oldest and longest Chinese wall, it stretches for 641 kilometers.

It is important to note that the Great Wall of China is a system of fortifications, with parts built using elements of the terrain. According to the findings of a 2012 study, its total length is 21,196.18 km.

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