Authenticity of the mausoleum of Cao Cao: "pro" and "contra"

The article is aimed at investigation of the basic provisions concerning the authenticity of Cao Cao grave near Xigaoxue village in Anyang County of Henan Province (PRC). Controversies around this burial complex are widely discussed in the scientific world in China and abroad. As arguments «pro» and «contra» logically constructed schemes, supported by quotations from ancient chronicles are presented by historians and archaeologists of China. The Mausoleum of Cao Cao marked the transition from Antiquity to the Middle Ages. Cao Cao was the ruler of Wei kingdom, so his burial complex allows studying and understanding the specifics of the Three Kingdoms period. There is also an opinion that the burial complex belongs to Cao Huan, the last ruler of Wei kingdom of the Three Kingdoms period. It is because of a seal that was found in his burial chamber. In December 27, 2009 at press conference in Beijing, it has been announced that the tomb found near Xigaoxue Village of Anyang County, Henan Province belonged to the Eastern Han period. Prof. Pan Weibin declared that its appearance, grave goods, location and historical data correspond to the tomb of Cao Cao. Other scientists confirmed an identity of Wei Cao Cao as the grave master. This funeral complex is orientated from east to west. The Mausoleum has a great size, brick chambers and complex design. Underground complex consists of a sloping corridor, front and rear chambers and four side rooms. The total area of the monument is about 800 square m. The grave № 2 contained the remains of three people, including fragments of the skeleton of 60 years man and two women (presumably, his wife and concubine). Archaeologists discovered grave goods, consisting of 250 items. There are gold, silver, bronze and iron products. Also scientists found 59 rectangular and rounded stone tablets on which the name and number of burial items were engraved. Nevertheless, the grave has many times been looted, so, a lot of material and historical values have been lost. There are several aspects under investigation, including the location of Cao Cao grave, the title of the buried person, grave goods, their dating, stone tags and characteristics of the tomb master. In China Cao Cao is a recognizable figure in nation''s history so the analysis and discussions around this Mausoleum in Anyang County are of great importance for China.