Shuomen Ancient Port Excavations in Wenzhou Provide New Evidence of Ancient Shipbuilding and Trade on the Maritime Silk Road

Published on November 29, 2025

Wenzhou, a coastal city in Zhejiang Province, is gaining international attention as the latest hub for Maritime Silk Road heritage. Known for its rich historical significance as a key port along the ancient Silk Road, Wenzhou is reviving its cultural heritage through significant archaeological discoveries. Recently, the city hosted a conference that brought together experts from Chinese museums, research institutions, and the City Alliance for Maritime Silk Road Heritage Conservation. The event focused on the latest findings from the Shuomen Ancient Port Site, which dates back to the Five Dynasties and Northern Song Dynasty, offering new insights into China’s maritime history.

The discoveries at the Shuomen port site offer a fresh look at Wenzhou’s historical role in global trade and cultural exchange. This significant excavation project is shedding light on the Maritime Silk Road, a trade route that connected China with Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, contributing to the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices.

Key Discoveries at Shuomen Ancient Port Site

• New Excavations: The recent excavation of over 1,000 square meters has revealed previously unseen coastline relics from the Five Dynasties to the Northern Song Dynasty, filling an important gap in the timeline of the Shuomen port.
• Shipwreck Findings: Excavation teams have completed the survey and excavation of No. 2 shipwreck at the port, revealing important details about the construction and design of ancient ships, as well as the shipyards in ancient Wenzhou.
• Port-City Integration: The boundaries of the Southern Song Dynasty to Ming and Qing Dynasty outbound roads and residential zones have been uncovered, illustrating how the port city was integrated with the surrounding infrastructure.

Conference on Shuomen Ancient Port Site

The recent conference in Wenzhou, organized by the China Academy of Cultural Heritage, National Centre for Archaeology, and the Zhejiang Cultural Heritage Authority, marked an important milestone in the city’s efforts to protect and preserve its Maritime Silk Road heritage. During the event, the Wenzhou Institute of Shuomen Ancient Port was inaugurated, a significant step in ensuring the continued study and preservation of this vital archaeological site.

Key highlights of the conference included presentations on the recent discoveries at the port and their importance in understanding the trade routes, shipbuilding practices, and cultural exchanges that shaped China’s maritime legacy. These findings have not only enhanced the understanding of Wenzhou’s historical importance but also reinforced its position as a leading contender for World Heritage recognition.

Wenzhou’s Role in the Maritime Silk Road

Wenzhou’s strategic location on the Tyrrhenian Sea made it a pivotal port in the Maritime Silk Road, connecting China with major civilizations across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The Shuomen Ancient Port, which served as one of the region’s central trading hubs, has long been known for its economic and cultural significance. This port acted as a bridge between East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods such as silk, ceramics, spices, and precious metals.

Wenzhou was also an important site for the production of ancient ships, and the recent discoveries of shipwrecks at the Shuomen port have provided tangible evidence of the advanced maritime technology used during the Song Dynasty. The findings suggest that ancient Wenzhou was home to thriving shipyards, further underscoring the city’s integral role in ancient global trade.

Future Prospects for Wenzhou’s Maritime Heritage

Wenzhou’s efforts to preserve and highlight its maritime history are not only significant for historical research but also have important implications for tourism and cultural heritage preservation. The findings at the Shuomen Ancient Port Site offer an opportunity to enhance the city’s appeal as a tourist destination for those interested in history, archaeology, and cultural heritage.

The Wenzhou Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, which has been tasked with overseeing the ongoing preservation and excavation efforts, is committed to ensuring that the Maritime Silk Road legacy remains an integral part of the city’s future development. The Shuomen Ancient Port has the potential to become a major attraction for international tourists and scholars, bringing attention to the rich cultural and historical legacy of Wenzhou and its role in global maritime trade.

Wenzhou as a Cultural and Economic Hub

• Strategic Location: Wenzhou is ideally located along the coast, offering access to beautiful beaches, historic sites, and ancient ports that have played a significant role in shaping China’s maritime history.
• Local Cultural Heritage: Beyond the Maritime Silk Road, Wenzhou is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its unique language, art, and traditional crafts.
• Tourism Growth: With its commitment to preserving its cultural legacy, Wenzhou is poised to become a key destination for travelers interested in exploring the intersections of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Conclusion: Wenzhou’s Maritime Legacy

Wenzhou’s Shuomen Ancient Port Site holds immense significance for understanding the rich maritime history of China and its historical connections with the world. The recent discoveries at the port, along with ongoing preservation efforts, have renewed interest in Wenzhou’s role in the Maritime Silk Road. With a focus on heritage conservation and academic research, Wenzhou is solidifying its place as a city that bridges the past and the future. The city’s rich archaeological discoveries and commitment to preserving its history will continue to attract both tourists and scholars from around the world, making Wenzhou a must-visit destination for those eager to explore China’s ancient maritime heritage.