Luoyang Adopts New Approaches to Safeguard Archaeological Heritage

The 7th International Forum of Historical Capitals and the "Global Mayors Dialogue 2026" were held in Luoyang, Henan Province, from October 11-13, 2026. The events highlighted Luoyang's historical significance and its current endeavors to protect and revitalize its archaeological heritage amidst urban expansion.

Luoyang, a city that served as a capital for numerous dynasties, has prioritized the protection of its cultural heritage sites in recent years. The city has transformed protected heritage properties into archaeological parks and developed tailored plans for individual locations, demonstrating progress in heritage revival while establishing new urban areas outside the historic core.

Notable conservation efforts are underway at the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Longmen Grottoes Research Institute is conducting preservation and restoration work, technical research, heritage monitoring, and digital archiving. These projects aim to mitigate threats such as water seepage, rock instability, and weathering, establishing a comprehensive conservation framework.

The Sui-Tang Luoyang excavation site, representing a peak of ancient Chinese urban planning, has also seen significant redevelopment. Between 2007 and 2024, a large-scale relocation project moved 973 households, involving nearly 3,300 residents and 63 businesses, from the area. This has freed up 62 hectares for heritage presentation. Additionally, plans for a nearly 200-hectare botanical garden are in development, integrating urban green spaces and ecological zones.