Luoyang is situated in Western Henan Province, and stretches over both the south and north banks of the Yellow River. It was the capital of nine dynasties starting from around 770 B.C. There are reminders of Luoyang's historical greatness scattered about town. The grottos of Longmen (listed in World Heritage Sites) contain the largest and most impressive collection of Chinese art. Shaolin Temple famous for its marial arts is another tourists' attraction in this area.