Chinese archeologists recently discovered an ancient well dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271- 1368) in Shilou County in north China's Shanxi Province.

The well was discovered on a hill slope during the reconstruction of a local water-conservancy project.

Covered by a slate, the well is about 70 cm in diameter and 182 meters deep. Carved on the bricks of the well mouth, are words showing the year of the well's construction, and names of the three workmen who built the well.

Archaeologists pointed to three possibilities for the use of the well as providing potable water source, storage or war trap.

The discovery will provide valuable clues for study on history and social customs in the early Yuan Dynasty. (Xinhua).