China's oldest flush toilet found over 2,400 years old

A toilet with a flushing system was found among the ruins of a palace in the ancient city of Yueyang in Xi'an (China). Archaeologists believe that it is more than 2400 years old, which corresponds to the periods of the reign of three Chinese emperors - Qin Xiaogong (381-338 BC). BC), Qin Xian Gong (424-362 years. BC) and Liu Bang (256-195). BC.). About it writes China Daily.

The surviving parts of the restroom were discovered last summer, but only now they have been put together. Several factors at once indicate that this toilet was a "luxury item." First, he had a manual drain. Since there was no sewerage in those days, this means that after each use, its contents were washed away with water. Secondly, it was located indoors. All this could afford only very rich people.

Archaeologists have never been able to find the upper part of the toilet, so they cannot say exactly how it was used: sitting or squatting. However, based on previous records of latrines, such as stone carvings on the tombs of royalty, they lean towards the latter option.

Prior to this discovery, the first manual flush toilet was believed to have been invented by John Harington for Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century.

Archaeological excavations in Yuzian began in 2012. Thanks to them, scientists expect to learn more about the eating habits of ancient people. Experts are analyzing the soil, hoping to find traces of human feces, but so far they have come across only traces of fertilizer.