When Was the Terracotta Army Discovered?
The Terracotta Army, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, wasn't stumbled upon by seasoned archaeologists, but by a group of humble farmers.
The Discovery
It was a seemingly ordinary day on March 29th, 1974, when Yang Zhifa, a local farmer in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, China, was digging a well with his fellow villagers. As they dug deeper, their shovels struck something hard and unyielding - fragments of terracotta. Initially, they thought they had unearthed broken pottery, a common find in the area. However, as they unearthed more and more fragments, they began to realize the significance of their discovery.
The fragments were not just broken pottery; they were parts of life-sized terracotta figures, intricately crafted with incredible detail. The news of the find quickly spread, attracting the attention of local authorities and eventually, archaeologists from the Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology.
Excavation and Significance
The archaeologists, recognizing the magnitude of the discovery, commenced a large-scale excavation of the site. What they uncovered astounded the world: an army of thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, chariots, and horses, each uniquely crafted with remarkable realism.
This "Terracotta Army", as it came to be known, was buried in three large pits near the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China (259-210 BCE). The army was meant to guard the emperor in the afterlife, a testament to the grandeur and power of the Qin dynasty.
Impact on History and Archaeology
The discovery of the Terracotta Army was a seminal moment in the world of archaeology. It provided invaluable insights into the military practices, artistry, and cultural beliefs of the Qin dynasty.
The sheer scale of the army, the meticulous craftsmanship, and the individuality of each figure revealed the advanced technological and artistic skills of the Qin artisans. The discovery rewrote history textbooks, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal period in Chinese history.
FAQs
**Q: Where is the Terracotta Army located?**
A: The Terracotta Army is located in Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi province, China, approximately 35 kilometers east of Xi'an city center.
**Q: How many warriors are in the Terracotta Army?**
A: It's estimated that there are over 8,000 terracotta soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses buried in the three pits. However, not all of them have been excavated yet.
**Q: Why was the Terracotta Army built?**
A: The Terracotta Army was built to accompany and protect the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife, reflecting the belief in the continuation of life after death.