Where is the Terracotta Army Located?
The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, is a sight to behold.
Location of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army is located in Lintong District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province, China. This puts it about 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of Xi'an city center.
The museum complex is built directly on the site of the original burial pits that were part of the much larger mausoleum complex of Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
History of the Discovery and Excavation
The discovery of the Terracotta Army was a remarkable event. In 1974, local farmers digging a well stumbled upon fragments of terracotta figures, unaware of the magnitude of their find. This serendipitous event unearthed an army of thousands, forever changing our understanding of China's past.
The excavation of the Terracotta Army has been a meticulous and ongoing process. Here's a timeline of the major excavations:
- Pit 1: Partially excavated in 1974, Pit 1 was opened to the public in 1979. This pit, the largest of the three, houses the main force of the terracotta army, with thousands of infantrymen and chariots.
- Pit 3: Fully excavated by 1989, Pit 3 is believed to represent the command post. This pit contains high-ranking officers and a chariot thought to belong to the army's commander.
- Pit 2: Excavations began in March 1994 and are ongoing, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness archaeology in action. Pit 2 showcases the diverse units of the Qin army, including kneeling archers, cavalry, and war chariots.
The Terracotta Army and Emperor Qin Shi Huang
The Terracotta Army provides a glimpse into the ambition and power of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. He unified China in 221 BC and is credited with standardizing writing, currency, weights and measures, and ordering the construction of the Great Wall. His mausoleum complex, which took decades and massive manpower to construct, was meant to be a microcosm of his empire, providing him with everything he needed in the afterlife.
Visiting the Terracotta Army
Today, the Terracotta Army is housed within the Lintong Museum, part of the larger Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Park. It stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient China and the legacy of its first emperor.
FAQ
Q: When is the best time to visit the Terracotta Army?
A: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Q: How long does it take to visit the Terracotta Army?
A: Allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully appreciate the scale and detail of the museum and the three pits.
Q: Is photography allowed inside the Terracotta Army Museum?
A: Yes, photography is generally allowed without a flash. However, using tripods or selfie sticks may be restricted in certain areas.