Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in China

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
The Museum of Qin Shihuang Terracotta Warriors and Horses
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1987
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 109,100°
Latitude: 34,383°

Summary

No doubt thousands of statues still remain to be unearthed at this archaeological site, which was not discovered until 1974. Qin (d. 210 B.C.), the first unifier of China, is buried, surrounded by the famous terracotta warriors, at the centre of a complex designed to mirror the urban plan of the capital, Xianyan. The small figures are all different; with their horses, chariots and weapons, they are masterpieces of realism and also of great historical interest.

Location on Map

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Introduction

The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, located in Lintong County, Shaanxi Province, China, is a UNESCO World Heritage site of great historical significance. This ancient burial complex, constructed over 2,200 years ago, is the final resting place of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. The site is renowned for its architectural grandeur, the famous Terracotta Army, and its profound cultural and historical value.

History

Construction of the Mausoleum began in 246 BC, shortly after Qin Shi Huang ascended to the throne at the age of 13. The emperor, driven by his desire for immortality and eternal power, commissioned the construction of an elaborate tomb complex that would serve as his eternal palace. The construction took over 38 years and involved the labor of hundreds of thousands of workers. The Mausoleum covers an area of approximately 56 square kilometers and is surrounded by a massive earthen mound. The tomb itself is believed to be a vast underground palace, containing numerous chambers and treasures. However, due to the emperor's desire to keep the tomb a secret, its exact layout and contents remain largely unknown.

The Terracotta Army

One of the most remarkable features of the Mausoleum is the Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974 by local farmers. This army of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots was created to accompany the emperor in the afterlife. The army is estimated to consist of over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, and 670 horses, each with unique facial expressions and intricate details. The discovery of the Terracotta Army has provided invaluable insights into the military, artistic, and cultural achievements of the Qin Dynasty. It is a testament to the advanced craftsmanship and organizational skills of the time.

Current State

Today, the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor stands as a testament to the grandeur and power of ancient China. The site has undergone extensive preservation and restoration efforts to protect its historical and cultural significance. Visitors to the site can explore the underground museum, which showcases a selection of the Terracotta Army and other artifacts discovered in the vicinity. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and achievements of Qin Shi Huang and the Qin Dynasty. The Mausoleum and its surrounding area have become a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The site's inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list has further enhanced its international recognition and importance. In conclusion, the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique insight into the history and culture of ancient China. With its awe-inspiring architecture, the famous Terracotta Army, and its historical significance, the site continues to captivate visitors from around the world. The preservation and ongoing research efforts ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from this extraordinary archaeological treasure.