Archaeologists have discovered an unprecedented large group of 900-year-old tombs in Horinger County in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

The tombs, dating back to the Liao Dynasty (916-1125), were excavated in the ancient city of Tuchengzi, said Li Qiang, head of the archeology team.

He said it was the largest group of Liao tombs ever discovered at the southern foot of the Yinshan Mountains running west-east through Inner Mongolia.

A vase and a kettle made of brown vitreous enamel were among 14ornate porcelain and six ceramic items found at the site, said Li.

He said 18 of the 21 tombs excavated were made of brick and the rest were earthen.

"The tombs are placed in order and decorated with frescos, indicating that members of an upper-class family were buried here." said Li, adding the discovery might provide insights into life in Tuchengzi during the Liao period.

The ancient city is believed to have been established during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 B.C.), and is now a cultural heritage site under state protection.

Editor: Wing