In Chinese tradition, dragons are regarded as sacred symbols of power. They are believed to ward off evil spirits and symbolise happiness, immortality, fertility and activity. According to legend, dragons lived under the surface of the Earth, and for thousands of years the fossilised bones of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals were interpreted to be those of dragons. The bones were collected and sold as potent ingredients for use in traditional Chinese medicines.

Current scientific study of dinosaurs in China began much later, in 1935, with excavations in Sichuan Province. Today, the dinosaurs of China are recognised as being among the best preserved, most abundant and diverse of any place on Earth.

Skeleton of a Tsintaosaurus