How Long Did It Take to Build the Terracotta Army?
The Terracotta Army is a vast collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. It is a form of funerary art buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE and whose purpose was to protect the emperor in his afterlife.
The Scale of the Project
Located in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, China, the Terracotta Army is a sight to behold. The figures, which include warriors, chariots, and horses, are life-sized and remarkably detailed. The sheer number of figures is staggering, with estimates ranging from 8,000 to over 10,000.
The complex is vast, covering an area of more than 50 square kilometers (20 square miles). It includes not just the pits containing the terracotta figures, but also tombs for the emperor and his concubines, along with the remains of palaces and other structures.
Construction Timeline
Building such an extensive complex was a massive undertaking that spanned several decades. Historians estimate that it took approximately 40 years to complete the Terracotta Army and the entire mausoleum complex.
Construction began in 246 BCE when Qin Shi Huang, then only thirteen years old, ascended to the throne. The project continued throughout his reign, with the majority of the work likely completed before his death in 210 BCE.
The Workforce
The construction of the Terracotta Army and the entire mausoleum complex would have required a massive workforce. Historical records suggest that over 700,000 laborers were involved in this immense project. These workers included skilled artisans, laborers, and convicts.
The artisans were responsible for crafting the terracotta figures, each individually sculpted with unique features and details. They used clay from the nearby Lishan Mountain, shaping and firing each figure before painting them in vibrant colors.
Rediscovery and Legacy
The Terracotta Army remained buried and largely forgotten for over two millennia. In 1974, a group of Chinese farmers digging a well stumbled upon fragments of terracotta figures, leading to the astonishing rediscovery of the site.
The discovery of the Terracotta Army was a monumental event in archaeological history. It provided invaluable insights into the military practices, artistry, and culture of the Qin dynasty.
The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at this ancient wonder.
FAQs
Q: When was the Terracotta Army discovered?
A: The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers digging a well.
Q: What is the purpose of the Terracotta Army?
A: The Terracotta Army was designed to protect the emperor Qin Shi Huang in his afterlife.
Q: How many figures are in the Terracotta Army?
A: It is estimated that there are over 8,000 figures in the Terracotta Army, including warriors, chariots, and horses.