Feng Hao

Feng Hao (封鎬) was a historical city in ancient China, serving as one of the twin capitals of the Western Zhou dynasty (c. 1046 – 771 BCE), alongside Haojing (鎬京). Located on the west bank of the Feng River (沣河) in modern-day Xi'an, Shaanxi province, Feng was established by King Wu of Zhou as the political and ancestral center, complementing Haojing's role as the administrative and ritual capital.

Feng served as the primary capital of the Zhou dynasty until King Zhao's reign, after which the political center gradually shifted towards Haojing. Archaeological findings at the site, including palace foundations, tombs, and workshops, suggest a sophisticated urban layout and significant royal presence. The discovery of bronze artifacts bearing inscriptions provides valuable insights into the political and social structures of the early Zhou period.

Despite its prominence, Feng eventually declined in importance and was abandoned sometime during the Spring and Autumn period (771 – 476 BCE). The exact reasons for its abandonment are not fully understood, but likely involved a combination of political instability and environmental factors.

Today, the ruins of Feng Hao are an important archaeological site, offering crucial evidence for understanding the development of early Chinese civilization and the rise of the Zhou dynasty. Its designation as a protected cultural site reflects its significance in Chinese history.