Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum

The Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive burial complex was constructed over 38 years for Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor who unified China in 221 BCE. The mausoleum complex covers approximately 56 square kilometers and remains largely unexcavated, with the main tomb mound still sealed. The most famous part of the complex is the Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974 by local farmers digging a well. This incredible collection includes over 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses, each with unique facial features and arranged in battle formation. The site represents the pinnacle of ancient Chinese funerary art and provides invaluable insights into Qin Dynasty military organization, technology, and artistic achievement.