Yongyu Mausoleum (永裕陵) is the burial site of Emperor Zhao Xu, the sixth emperor of the Northern Song Dynasty, constructed in 1085. The stone carvings at this mausoleum represent the epitome of late Northern Song Dynasty sculptural art, showcasing mature techniques and exquisite craftsmanship. Regarded by many aesthetic and historical experts as the pinnacle of imperial mausoleum art, Yongyu Mausoleum has long been renowned for its intricate stone carving techniques, particularly for its mounted stone and guardian warriors, attracting countless visitors as well as tomb raiders.
Yongyu Mausoleum is shaped like an inverted Chinese cooking vessel, with a slightly square base measuring about 60 meters on each side and standing approximately 18 meters tall. Originally, there were two levels of terraces, with the lower one enclosed with brick and stone walls and the upper one densely planted with pine and cypress trees, but these features are no longer extant. Presently, atop the elevated mausoleum platform, only thickets of brambles and overgrown grass remain. Seventeen stone sculptures are still preserved in front of the mausoleum, representing the pinnacle of late Northern Song Dynasty stone carving with their vivid forms, skilled techniques, and smooth lines. The stone lions outside the South Divine Gate are carved robustly, exuding vitality and strength.
Buried within this mausoleum complex are also the tombs of Empress Dowager Xiang (Qinsheng Empress), who died at the age of 56 (her tomb is located northwest of Yongyu Mausoleum), Empress Zhu (birth mother of Emperor Zhezong, who died at the age of 51), Empress Chen (birth mother of Emperor Huizong, who died at the age of 32), and Empress Wang (birth mother of Emperor Qinzong, who died at the age of 25, with her tomb located northeast of Yongyu Mausoleum). These tombs are still recognizable, and the stone sculptures in front of each tomb are mostly intact. However, some of these artistic treasures have been buried under cultivated land, while others stand unprotected in the middle of the road to the west of the mausoleum, exposed to the elements and the impact of people, animals, and vehicles, bearing visible signs of damage – a sight that is truly regrettable.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 30 minutes |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hour a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Yongyu Mausoleum is located in the southeast of Baling Village, Zhitian Town (芝田镇), Gongyi City, Zhengzhou, Henan Province. To reach the mausoleum, one can take a public bus from Gongyi to Zhitian Town, then transfer to a minibus heading towards “Baling Village (八陵村)” upon arrival. After reaching the village, proceed southwestward, and you will arrive at the mausoleum.
