Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army is not only Xi'an's most renowned cultural site but also one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. For over two millennia, this life-size subterranean army has stood guard over the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor to unify China.

The discovery of the Terracotta Army in 1974 was accidental. Local farmers digging a well unearthed what would later be identified as an underground vault containing thousands of terracotta warriors and horses arranged in battle formation. Subsequent archaeological excavations revealed the extraordinary scale and craftsmanship of the site, with each figure featuring distinct facial expressions, hairstyles, and armor.

The excavation site is organized into three pits, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the scale and structure of the ancient army. Pit 3, the smallest, contains 72 warriors and horses and is believed to have served as the command center, evidenced by the number of high-ranking officers discovered there. Pit 2 contains around 1,300 warriors and horses. Several representative figures, including archers, cavalrymen, officers, and generals, are displayed for close examination, demonstrating the remarkable attention to detail in their design.

Pit 1 is the largest and most impressive, housing an estimated 6,000 warriors and horses, although only about 2,000 are currently on display. The soldiers are positioned in strict military formation, originally equipped with spears, swords, and other long-handled weapons. The infantry was accompanied by wooden chariots, which have not survived the passage of time.

In addition to the Terracotta Army, two bronze chariots and horses were unearthed approximately 20 meters west of the emperor's tomb. These artifacts, along with a collection of weaponry and a mid-ranking officer figure, are now exhibited in the Qin Shi Huang Emperor Tomb Artifact Exhibition Hall.

The site also offers interpretive resources, including an introductory film in the wrap-around theater, as well as guided tours and audio guides. Visitors are permitted to take photographs, though the use of flash and tripods is officially prohibited.

Souvenirs ranging from small terracotta replicas to life-size warrior statues are available at the on-site gift shops, along with other cultural and craft items.