In the 1980s, archaeologists made a stunning discovery in Guangzhou, the capital of south China’s Guangdong Province. The untouched tomb of Zhao Mo, the second ruler of the Nanyue Kingdom, unveiled a treasure trove that reshapes our understanding of ancient global trade.
Among the artifacts was a Persian-styled silver box adorned with intricate floral motifs. This, along with African ivory and Red Sea frankincense, confirms that Guangzhou was a bustling global trade hub over 2,000 years ago. The findings suggest ancient China had established extensive trade connections with Persia and other distant regions.
“It’s incredible to think that items from Persia ended up in Guangzhou so long ago,” said a local historian. “It shows how interconnected the world was, even in ancient times.”
Zhao Mo’s tomb not only provides a glimpse into the opulence of the Nanyue Kingdom but also highlights the role of the Nanyue people as early global shoppers who bridged Eastern and Western civilizations. The silver box, silent yet eloquent, embodies a connection across deserts, seas, and centuries.
Today, Guangzhou’s modern skyline is a testament to its enduring legacy as a gateway between worlds. The city’s ancient harbor laid the foundations for its current status as a major international metropolis, maintaining its role in global trade for over two millennia.
