Tomb of female prime minister of Wu Zetian era discovered

Chinese archaeologists have just discovered the tomb of Shangguan Wan'er, who was considered a "female prime minister" under Emperor Wu Zetian.

Chinese scientists work next to an ancient tomb believed to be that of Shangguan Wan'er. Photo:AFP

Shangguan Wan'er's tomb was discovered at an airport in Xianyang, northern Shaanxi Province, and has her name engraved on the tombstone. The tomb was dug deep under a layer of ochre soil, with a curved passageway inside, and several ceramic horses were also found inside, according to the Radio China website.CRIsaid

"The tomb was found in a badly damaged state, it seems like there was an attempt to destroy it. The excavation did not find any gold or treasure, and archaeologists did not even find a complete bone," said Geng Qinggang, a researcher in Shaanxi province.

However, the discovery of the tomb and the markings on the stele have important significance for future research, said Du Wenyu, a historian specializing in the Tang Dynasty.

Shangguan Wan'er lived from 664 to 710 during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Tang. She is a famous figure in Chinese history for her poetic talent and was a close female official who was especially trusted by the only female emperor in Chinese history, Wu Zetian. Later, she became a concubine of Emperor Zhongzong of Tang, and was tragically murdered in a power struggle.

According to VnExpress - LY