After nearly three years of archaeological excavation, the Baojia Site in Liyang, Changzhou City — covering 20,000 to 30,000 square meters — has been dated to 7,500–8,100 years ago and is regarded as the earliest known origin of the Jiangnan region.

Research shows that the site's distinct cultural identity fills a key gap in understanding the Neolithic cultural history of the Taihu Lake region, a core area that later became the cultural and economic heartland of Jiangnan. It also provides important evidence for tracing the origins of Chinese civilization along the lower reaches of the Yangtze River.

Archaeologists have discovered the earliest known painted pottery in Jiangsu Province at the site. According to Hu Yingfang, deputy research fellow at the Jiangsu Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology and head of the excavation team, the discoveries include a semi-annular jade pendant, stone knives, stone spears, shell knives, and pottery items such as cauldrons, bowls and basins, as well as wooden pieces featuring mortise-and-tenon joints.

Furthermore, animal remains indicate that the area once had rich biodiversity and a favorable ecological environment, making it well suited for human habitation.