Here lies more than just a mound of earth. It’s the final resting place of a legend. This is the story of \u4e50\u6bc5\u5893.
\u4e50\u6bc5\u5893 also known as “Tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng” sits in Fangshan District. Specifically, it is east of Fuzhuang Village in Liangxiang Guandao Township. This tomb dates back to the Warring States period.
Imagine \u4e50\u6bc5 a brilliant military strategist from that era. He served as a general for the Yan State. \u4e50\u6bc5 was granted the title of Lord of Changguo. He helped King Zhao of Yan revitalize the kingdom. He avenged Yan’s defeat by the Qi state.
In 284 BC, \u4e50\u6bc5 led a coalition of five states against Qi. He conquered over 70 cities. This feat remains a legendary example of military prowess. It showcased how the weak can defeat the strong. Later, \u4e50\u6bc5 sought refuge in Zhao. There he was titled Lord Wang Zhuge.
During the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong honored \u4e50\u6bc5. He was among ten famous generals enshrined in the Martial Temple. This act solidified \u4e50\u6bc5’s place in Chinese military history.
Observe the stone stele before us. It stands about three meters tall. It is inscribed with “Tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng”. This stele dates back to 1915. Wang Chengyi magistrate of Liangxiang erected it.
Notice the couplets on the stone pillars. They were added in 1922. The first couplet praises \u4e50\u6bc5’s extraordinary military achievements. The second praises \u4e50\u6bc5 for introducing superior jujube trees to the Qi state. Even today, Shandong province has “Le jujube”.
Between 2004 and 2007, the Fangshan District government renovated the \u4e50\u6bc5\u5893. Now, it is protected by fences. A new stele was erected to record the restoration.
Contemplate the poems dedicated to \u4e50\u6bc5. Li Meng a Qing dynasty poet lamented \u4e50\u6bc5’s tomb. He praised \u4e50\u6bc5’s spirit. Gu Yanwu another Qing poet reflected on \u4e50\u6bc5’s achievements. He expressed regret over King Zhao’s lack of insight. Han Yu from the Tang Dynasty asked others to pay respects at \u4e50\u6bc5’s tomb.
Interestingly there are actually two \u4e50\u6bc5\u5893s. \u4e50\u6bc5 died in Zhao but was buried in Yan. A second tomb exists in Daming County.
In 2005, tomb raiders attempted to loot this \u4e50\u6bc5\u5893. Fortunately police apprehended them before they could cause serious damage. This highlights the ongoing need to protect this historical site.
Look around. See this small hill covered with trees. This is the \u4e50\u6bc5\u5893. It is a reminder of a brilliant military leader. He shaped the course of Chinese history. His legacy lives on.