CCTV9英语新闻：Han-dynasty burial site in Hunan Province（在线收听）

This time a large set of ancient tombs dating back to the Han Dynasty, in central China's Hunan Province.

Archaeologists have so far found 48 brick-chambered tombs and over 10 earthen tombs. They have also dug out more than 150 burial objects, including iron swords, copper coins, and pottery.

It's estimated more than 100 tombs are at the site, most of them small. In one of the earthen tombs, they found well-preserved kitchen items.

Archaeologists have so far found 48 brick-chambered tombs and over 10 earthen tombs.

"This is an oven stove in a kitchen, and there is a pot. Over there is a pottery jar whose lid has fallen down beside it," said He Zan, Hunan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics.

Though this particular tomb had been rifled by graverobbers, in this case the damage was minimal.

"The hole was dug in the wrong place, so most of the burial objects were preserved," said Guo Weimin, head of Hunan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics.

They have also dug out more than 150 burial objects, including iron swords, copper coins, and pottery.

The archaeological authority says this find will help with understanding the history and ancient culture of Hunan. 

The unearthed relics will later be exhibited.