The Huanbei Shang City stie and Yinxu hold significant historical importance in the development of the Shang Dynasty's capitals.The settlements surrounding these cities not only constitute a crucial component of the capital but also reflect its evolving characteristics over time.This article explores the structural composition and distribution features of settlements during the Middle and Late Shang Dynasties within the Huan River Basin.It delves into various aspects such as settlement form,function,grade,and nature.By examining newly unearthed materials from recent years,this research reveals that the settlements in Huanbei and Yinxu exhibit a distinct three-level hierarchies.Nevertheless,the capital remains at its core,presenting a more intricate and multifaceted layout than the previously perceived notion of a singular large area surrounded by smaller ones.With the shift of the center from the north to the south of the Huan River,secondary settlements transformed into hubs for handicraft production within the city.Furthermore,bottom-level settlements saw a continuous increase in number,extending their presence on both sides of the Huan River.Together,they established the foundational framework of what we now refer to as"The Great Settlement Shang."
Huanbei Shang City siteYinxusettlement patternthree-level hierarchy
NETL
NSTL
万方数据
维普
