Step Pyramid of City-Terramare
Hellenistic (323–31 BCE)·Hellenistic·🇨🇳 Henan, China
About
About Step Pyramid of City-Terramare
Step Pyramid of City-Terramare in Henan, China is a Hellenistic (323–31 BCE) pyramid attributed to Hellenistic culture. Systematically investigated through magnetometry and coring, it presents a fortified nucleus with workshop zone. Construction employs mudbrick on stone socle and demonstrates long-distance exchange. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Hellenistic pyramid with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Astronomical alignment and orientation
- 02Chronology and phasing of monuments
Theories
- 01Elite residence and administrative centre
- 02Defensive refuge and tribal capital
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 259 BCE
- Period
- Hellenistic (323–31 BCE)
- Culture
- Hellenistic
- Purpose
- Agricultural and hydraulic
- Excavation
- Unexcavated
c. 259 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 345 BCE
Secondary construction phase
c. 259 CE
Abandonment and gradual burial
1957
Archaeological identification via aerial survey
On the ground
Structures & features
36.2261° N · 114.4728° E · 2161 m · 4 mapped features
Granary Cluster
chamberBurial zone — shaft tombs
36.2246° N · 114.4708° EAltar
necropolisHydraulic feature — aqueduct
36.2240° N · 114.4724° EReservoir/Cistern
necropolisAncillary field system associated with main monument
36.2283° N · 114.4753° EGateway
reservoirBurial zone — rock-cut chambers
36.2268° N · 114.4748° E