The tombs are in ruins of Yin, the capital city of the ancient Shang dynasty, the first dynasty supported by archaeological evidence. The site is in the modern city of Anyang, in Henan province.

In the tomb complex are a number of pits in which were found war chariots and the remains of both horses and soldiers. Found with the animal and human remains were evidence of great wealth bestowed on them, in the form of gold veneer on the horses' foreheads and decorate, expensive hats on the warriors' heads.

The Shang stretched from 1600 B.C. to 1046 B.C., giving way to the Zhou Dynasty. Many historians have noted that it was not uncommon in the culture of the time for servants, including warriors, to volunteer to be buried with their masters.

Archaeologists also found items made of bone, jade, shells, and stone. Adorning more than a few were lavish decorations, suggesting to scientists that the owners were wealthy.

Digging at the site has been ongoing for a couple of years. Archaeologists have found parts of 18 buildings.