People visit an exhibition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo) XI’AN, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) — An exhibition opened Sunday at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors.
The exhibition showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). In 1974, local farmers accidentally unearthed clay fragments while digging a well, leading to one of China’s most significant archaeological discoveries — the army of Terracotta Warriors — which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. Around 2,000 life-size clay warriors and numerous weapons had been unearthed from three pits surrounding Qinshihuang’s tomb, covering an area of over 20,000 square meters. After 50 years of excavation and research, over 10 above-ground building sites and more than 500 underground burial pits and tombs have been discovered in the mausoleum. Over 50,000 pieces of relics have been unearthed.
This success can be attributed to several factors, including its unique architectural design, its rich history, and its captivating exhibitions. The museum’s architectural design is a key factor in its popularity. The museum’s distinctive dome-shaped roof and its towering, imposing structure have made it a recognizable landmark in Xi’an. Its unique design is a blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern aesthetics, creating a visually stunning and memorable experience for visitors.
The Terracotta Army, a collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures of soldiers, horses, and chariots, is a testament to the power and ambition of the Qin dynasty. The army was created by Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, to protect him in the afterlife. The army is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese craftsmanship, and its discovery in 1974 has captivated the world.
People visit an exhibition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo) A visitor takes photos at an exhibition commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo)
People visit an exhibition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo) People visit an exhibition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo)
People visit an exhibition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo) People visit an exhibition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery and excavation of the iconic Terracotta Warriors, at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Sept. 8, 2024. The exhibition, which opened on Sunday, showcases 230 cultural relics in eight categories, many being revealed to the public for the first time, offering a glimpse into the era of Emperor Qinshihuang of the Qin Dynasty (221 BC-207 BC). (Xinhua/Li Yibo)
The exhibition showcases a variety of artifacts, including weapons, armor, and pottery, alongside the Terracotta Warriors themselves. The exhibition is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution of the excavation project, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the past. It also serves as a window into the life and culture of the Qin Dynasty, offering insights into their military prowess, social hierarchy, and artistic sensibilities.
Editor: GSY