Home to the Great Wall, China has long made its mark in the world’s battle for greatness. As China strives to achieve global super-power status in today’s complex political and economic arena, it is landmark monuments like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the mighty Terracotta Warriors that remind us that China’s battle for supremacy delves deeper than the 21st century.
Even if the subject of politics bores you, the Terracotta Warriors is a must-visit attraction that lies near many hotels in Xian. Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Warriors is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated not far from Citadines Xingqing Palace Xi’an. Terracotta statues of 7000 Chinese warriors who are believed to have accompanied First Emperor Qin in his quest to unify China’s warring regions now stand in three excavated vaults and greet visitors as they enter the compound. The life-size statues, each unique in facial expression, clothing and gesture, offer a rare glimpse into the warring traditions and military life of ancient China. Closer examination reveals that the soldiers are positioned in ancient battle formation and are facing east as though ready for battle.
Visit Vault One and be greeted by 2000 weapon-bearing soldiers of Emperor Qin’s army. Vault One offers a glimpse at Emperor Qin’s army complete with infantry, armoured soldiers and 38 horse-driven chariots. Step into Vault 2 and discover rows of kneeling and standing archers among chariots and infantry soldiers before entering the third and smallest vault which contains 68 Terracotta figurines representing the Commanding Officers of Emperor Qin’s army. Despite many of the figurines being headless, the intricate detail of the Generals’ dress is admirable.
End your tour at the exhibition hall of Bronze Chariots and admire remarkable bronze relics including two life-size horse-driven Chariots assembled using over 1700 pieces of gold, silver and bronze. 2000 years since the end of the mighty Qin Dynasty, the Terracotta Warriors stand as a proud reminder of the power and wealth of China’s first Emperor who wished his military strength of thousand men be placed in near his tomb to be taken with him to the afterlife.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
