Ancient Ming Dynasty Tomb Cluster discovered at San Tin Tech site

A cluster of ancient tombs, some bearing inscriptions dating back to the tenth year of the Chongzhen era of the Ming Dynasty (1637), has been discovered within the proposed site for the San Tin Technopole.

Following the discovery, the Development Bureau has confirmed that the Antiquities and Monuments Office is currently assessing the historical value of the find before discussing appropriate arrangements or mitigation measures with the Civil Engineering and Development Department.

The tomb cluster, located on a hillside near Rolling Hills on San Tam Road in Yuen Long, is reported to include two to three circular Qing Dynasty graves for the Lam family and six Ming Dynasty tombstones.

The site, which has been incorporated into the development plan for the San Tin Technopole, has already been posted with government notices requiring relocation by October 31.

According to the Development Bureau, the tombs are situated on government land earmarked for the first phase and stage one of the project, an area currently zoned for local road development.

In response to the discovery, the Lands Department has been posting notices at the site before the annual Ching Ming and Chung Yeung festivals since 2024, appealing for descendants to come forward.

The department has since been contacted by descendants of those interred and representatives from the indigenous residents of Lung Yeuk Tau to coordinate subsequent arrangements.

The Lands Department has stated it will maintain communication with relevant government bodies and will engage in further discussions with the descendants based on the findings from the Antiquities and Monuments Office's research and its subsequent talks with the Civil Engineering and Development Department.