LUOYANG, Henan - Before the middle of the 10th century, the city of Luoyang was already a bustling metropolis - for half of its then 3,000-year-old history it had been the capital of some 13 dynasties.

However, despite being home to six UNESCO World Heritage sites, the city in Central China's Henan province is not as well known as its Western peers like Athens and Rome. And the modern city landscape gives few clues of its historical past.

The often forgotten capital has been overshadowed by Xi'an, known for its Terracotta Warriors. But Luoyang is planning to step out of the shadows and reclaim its former glory.