Terracotta Army Discovery & Mausoleum Experience

Terracotta Army Discovery & Mausoleum Experience

In 1974, farmers near Lintong (Xi’an) dug up some broken pottery and soon uncovered one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century: more than 8,000 life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots buried to guard China’s first Emperor Qin Shi Huang (221–210 BCE). As a 13-year-old, Qin Shi Huang unified China, standardized the script and measurement units, and began excavating and constructing China’s Great Wall. His vast subterranean necropolis, still only partially dug up, represents both his grand ambitions as a leader and the horrible cruelty of his reign.

You will first see a short 360° film showing battles and court ceremonial activities from the period, then follow around the edges of the main excavation area. You’ll marvel at the warrior’s individually detailed armor, hairstyle and expression, and you’ll learn how they were brought to life with bronze weapons and fading pigments. Two other pits have additional infantry and chariot formations, while the Emperor’s tomb mound nearby remains unexcavated and quiet. Since being granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1987, the Terracotta Army has remained one of the most unforgettable highlights of our China Tours.