One of the main cities of Yan, Yanxiadu has been archaeologically excavated several times. During the Warring States period it occupied a strategic site between two rivers and controlled a pass to the eastern plain.
As the battle for supremacy intensified between the rival states, more and more of the population sought protection behind the massive walls of palace-cities such as Yanxiadu. Its western section may have been a later addition for refugees from the surrounding countryside, as well as possibly an area for growing food if the city came under siege.
Its eastern section had different zones set aside for certain people and activities - iron and bronze foundries, pottery and weapons workshops, a coin mint, the market place, domestic houses, military barracks and public squares.
Towards the north-eastern corner of the city, enclosed by a canal and inner wall, was a large, raised earthen platform. On this was the royal palace and administrative complex.
