Capital of the state of Chu, Jinancheng was the largest southern city. It was built around 689 BC at the meeting point of two rivers. As well as providing a ready water supply, these rivers also surrounded the 25 ft (7.6 m) high city walls with a protective moat.
Within Jinancheng were the usual territorial divisions between the different social classes and commercial activities. The royal palaces were aloof within their own compound in the north-eastern quarter.
In the northern and western sections were the houses and markets of the city's merchants and workers. Between the royal enclave and the artisans' neighbourhood were pottery workshops, while the south-western sector of the city was given over to foundries casting bronze and possibly iron.
Near by, tombs of Chu nobles have been unearthed, each revealing rich items such as ceremonial swords. One had a hilt made of blue glass and turquoises and a blade covered with geometric patterns. Another sword blade had been inscribed with golden bird symbols.
