Renowned as the most noteworthy archaeological excavations executed during the 20th century, the truly impressive Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses were built in order to protect the tomb of one of China’s most significant rulers.

The site was first discovered by some local farmers in Xian’s eastern suburbs while in the process of drilling a well. With the discovery, many archaeologists were prompted to arrive in Shaanxi Province in order to further investigate and excavate. It is believed that the Terracotta Army was created according to a unique type of funerary art that was buried along with the First Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. He was made king at the age of thirteen and by thirty eight Emperor Qin Shi Huang was able to unite China in way of conquering the six adjoining states.

Emperor Qin Shi Huang is popular for his contributions and his legacy occupies an immovable position in the history of China. He is admired for his discerning policies that were even used by succeeding dynasties. He took the lead in establishing standardized monetary and legal systems as well as a centralised administrative system in the country. He was also responsible for encouraging agriculture and constructing many roads for convenient transportation. Even though the country benefited immensely by his policies and extensive public works projects a large number of Chinese workers sacrificed their lives in the process. It is estimated that for the constructing of his tomb alone nearly 700,000 workers sacrificed their lives. According to ‘the Historical Records’ written by Sima Qian a century later, the central chamber of the tomb represents heaven and earth and the ceiling which is inlaid by pearls signifies the star filled heavens.

The Terracotta Warriors that can be witnessed today has a barrier put in place to safeguard the tomb of this merciless Emperor for eternity. It is recorded that these were the first ever free-standing statues built in the world’s history of art. These figures differ in height and include warriors, generals, chariots, musicians and horses. It is estimated that in the three pits containing these statues there are more than 8,000 soldiers, over 130 chariots along with 520 horses.

The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor that includes the Terracotta Warriors which has been declared a World Heritage site by the UNESCO is located in close proximity for a visitor staying at Shangri-La Hotel, Xian which is well known as a Xian luxury hotel offering unmatched service and top class facilities.

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About the Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry

[Image] Terracotta Army © Steffen Roch