Hyogo Pref. Square-fronted, square-backed mound

Nishi-Motomezuka Kofun

LocationHyogo Pref.
ShapeSquare-fronted, square-backed mound
Mound length98 m
PeriodLate 3rd c.
DesignationNational Historic Site

Overview

An Early Kofun-period square-fronted, square-backed mound in Nada, Kobe, important for understanding the early kofun of the Osaka Bay coast and wide-ranging exchange.

Finds & research

The pit-style stone chamber yielded 12 bronze mirrors (including seven triangular-rimmed deity-and-beast mirrors) and iron weapons and tools. The finds are designated Important Cultural Properties.

Two views on the occupant

Archaeological view
A 98m square-fronted, square-backed mound (95m in Kobe City’s short guide). The city’s regional plan dates it to the late 3rd century. Excavation began in fiscal 1985; mirrors including triangular-rimmed deity-and-beast mirrors were found in fiscal 1993. The rear pit-style stone chamber yielded 12 bronze mirrors and numerous iron objects.
Imperial Household Agency view
Not designated by the IHA; a National Historic Site. Legend calls it a suitor's grave, but the archaeological occupant is unknown.

Field notes

Maintained as a park; check Kobe City's current guidance, including display information.

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Sources

神戸市埋蔵文化財センター 西求女塚古墳文化庁 文化遺産オンライン 西求女塚古墳神戸市文化財保存活用地域計画文化庁 国指定文化財等データベース 西求女塚古墳出土品

Related kofun

Mausoleum of Emperor Junnin Goshikizuka Kofun (194m) Otomezuka Kofun (70m) Higashi-Motomezuka Kofun (80m) Gyojazuka Kofun (100m) Tamaoka Kofun (109m)
← Otomezuka Kofun Higashi-Motomezuka Kofun →