Scientists to map out vast ancient city

Kingdom was important site along old Silk Road during Han dynasties

Chinese scientists plan over five years to gather enough information to fully map out the ancient kingdom of Loulan and to solve the mystery of its disappearance.

"With satellite technology and field work, we hope to recreate a complete picture of the kingdom of Loulan," Qin Xiaoguang, head scientist of the five-year program, told China Daily via telephone on Monday.

Besides Loulan, Qin said the program will also study natural formations in the Lop Nor region such as the Yadan landscape, a vast area of wind eroded hills and bluffs.

Each year from 2014 to 2016, a team of about 30 scientists will be sent to the region to conduct research for 20 to 30 days.

"The program is the most comprehensive and the first government-sponsored scientific research in China's Lop Nor," Qin said, adding that nearly 10 million yuan ($1.6 million) will be allocated.

Qin, who is confidant that great discoveries will be made, said the satellite image of Loulan shows many potential villages, roads, gateways, farmland and even irrigation channels.

During the time of the Han Dynasty, the large oasis city Loulan flourished by the lake and grew rich from its position along the Silk Road. But in the 7th century, possibly due to changing climate, it was destroyed by desertification, sandstorms and other factors.

"If we can restore the kingdom on the map, archaeologists will get a better understanding of human development in the region," Qin said.

The first field expedition could set out in September or October, Qin said.

Aside from the importance of the Loulan kingdom in human development and cultural exchange between the East and West, the special geological landscape can also help scientists to understand the climate change in the region and the reason that Lop Nor lake dried up.

"The world's largest Yadan landform is located in the region and can be used as a geological park," Qin said.

"Getting better acquainted with the Lop Nor region can help us further understand the relation between climate change and the ancient culture's heyday and death," Qin said.

As Loulan was an important oasis city along the ancient Silk Road, the research results can help not only to better understand the ancient Silk Road, but also the modern Silk Road and the sustainable development of a modern oasis.

wangqian@chinadaily.com.cn