Visiting the Terracotta Army
Xi'an, an ancient imperial capital of China, serves as the home to one of the most significant archaeological finds on the planet: the Terracotta Army. Since local farmers stumbled upon the site in 1974 while digging a well, the collection of terracotta figures has drawn millions of travelers eager to see its scale firsthand. If you are planning a trip to Xi'an, this site is a non-negotiable addition to your itinerary.
A 2,000-year-old masterpiece
Commissioned by Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the man who unified China, the Terracotta Army was built to guard its creator in the afterlife. The site contains thousands of life-sized statues, including soldiers, archers, horses, and chariots. Each figure was crafted by hand and possesses unique facial expressions and distinct details. It provides a direct look into the craftsmanship and funerary beliefs of the Qin dynasty.
The pits to explore
The archaeological site features three main pits open to the public. Pit No. 1 is the most expansive, housing more than 6,000 statues arranged in military formation. Pits No. 2 and No. 3 are smaller but equally detailed, showcasing specialized units and high-ranking officers. A guided tour is recommended to better grasp the historical context of these findings.
A modern and immersive museum
The museum located next to the pits displays restored artifacts, evidence of production techniques, and interactive exhibits. Do not skip the film presentation that outlines the history of Qin Shi Huang and his necropolis. The site also includes a cafe and a gift shop to round out your visit.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
An entire army made of terracotta, it is impressive! Not all the explanations are known yet, and we happened upon a guide who did not give us much info. In any case, the archaeological digs at the site are still going on. It has not revealed all its secrets yet.
Heads up, it is pretty far from the center of Xi'an. Between the round trip and the visit, expect to dedicate a full day to it if you go with an organized tour group.