The East Gate of Shimao: An architectural interpretation

Abstract

In 2012, the east gate, its adjoining walls and towers were brought to light at Shimao dated to 2300–1800BCE. This paper, focusing on the architectural remains, attempts to assess their architectonic makeups. Based on our analysis of the east gate, towers and walls, their forms and layout are reconstructed.This study enquires if Shimao was parallel to or different from other walled settlements built around the same time in the northern region and the Central Plain of China. The study reveals a mutual influence of building techniques and architectural traditions between regions. It is suggested that many important architectural modes and construction systems took place during the late Neolithic period in the north and initiated subsequent developments in gateway designs and wall buildings of cities during later periods in the Central Plain.