LANZHOU, March 30 (Xinhua) -- The cultural relics department of northwest China's Gansu Province said they have found an ancient tomb with delicate brick carvings.

The tomb, located in Kangle County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, was found by local villagers when working on an environmental protection project in the rural area. They later reported the discovery to the local cultural relics department.

Based on the shape and structure of the tomb, as well as carving patterns of the unearthed objects, experts initially determined that the tomb was built more than 700 years ago.

The tomb consists of four parts -- a passage, a gate, a tunnel and a chamber. A pottery jar and two porcelain bowls were unearthed.

Experts said the tomb is well preserved except some slight damage on the top of the tomb. They also found exquisite brick carvings inside the tomb.

The new findings provide valuable material for the study of local brick carving tradition, funeral customs and architectural art, according to experts.