SHIMAO, CHINA — Archeologists have discovered the remains of a 4,000-year-old lost city on a ridge above China's Tuwei River. <br /><br />Researchers found a massive step pyramid that is at least 230 feet high and stretches 59 acres at its base and published the results in the journal Antiquity, according to Live Science. <br /><br />According to archeologists, a city flourished around the pyramid for five centuries, and at one point encompassed an area of 988 acres. Researchers have named the city "Shimao." <br />The pyramid was built out of a loess hill, and had 11 steps tapering as they ascend. It was guarded by an inner and outer wall. <br /><br />According to the researchers, atop the pyramid "were extensive palaces built of rammed earth, with wooden pillars and roofing tiles, a gigantic water reservoir, and domestic remains related to daily life." <br />The researchers believe the ruling class lived on top of the pyramid, where artisanal or industrial crafts were produced. <br /><br />The remains of several human sacrifices were also discovered at Shimao.
