Xian
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Xian, Shanxi Province, China – Xian is home to one of the most magnificent burial sites found to date. Located near the Mausouleun of the First Qin Emperor, Qin Shihuang Ling, there are estimated to be buried 8,000 terracotta warriors, 130 chariots, 520 terracotta horses, and 150 cavalry horses. Also included in the burial are officials of the First Qin Emperor, acrobats, strongmen and musicians. The figures are from 6 foot to 6 foot 5 inches in height. Found in 1974 by several local farmers, the terracotta army dates to 210 BC, and is remarkably good condition. Only a small portion of the army has been uncovered. The rest remain buried within the three pits where the army has rested for over 2000 years. The purpose of this army was to serve the Emperor Qin in the next world. It took 700,000 workers According to the Chinese historian, Sima Qian, wrote that the emperor was buried with palaces, scenic towers, and 100 rivers of mercury. Over head were heavenly bodies including one with the features of the earth. Although the palaces, towers and rivers of mercury have not yet been found, it is true that the land in and around the burial site does contain high levels of mercury adding to speculation that the tale may be true. Located near by is the tomb of Shi Huang Di, first Emperor of a unified China and builder of the first version of the Great Wall. This tomb has never been opened. The necropolis of Qin Shi Huang has been found and it contains the remains of many of the craftsmen who worked on the tomb. The mere act of uncovering the army has caused damage to it. The army suffers from nine different kinds of mold and the figures have become oxidized grey from exposure to the air. It is reported that the delicate and highly stylized features of the statues are disappearing as the statues deteriorate. Officials of the Chinese government deny this. There is no denying that this is one of mankind’s greatest artistic achievements and well worth visiting.
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