Now we are in Xi’an, home to several Chinese dynasties, and most importantly, home to the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Qin Shi Huang was an amazing figure in history. He united the Warring States into the first China, he created a universal coin system that lasted until the 1900s, he unified Chinese characters writing systems so that despite different dialects, China could communicate at least in writing, built up the Great Wall, and best of all, spent 40 years working on his afterlife preparations. Which is what we’re here to see. The largest tomb in the whole world, estimated to cover 56 sq km. This is Peter’s first trip. I’ve been here before in 1996, but I am no less awed by the tremendous scale, beauty, and resource allocation.
The life size soldiers are exquisite. All the faces are different, probably modeled after real soldiers. The tomb contains a full army contingent – calvary, infantry, charioteers, commanders – with all the details of their rank and position demonstrated in their uniforms, their stances, their headgear. What really fires up the imagination is thinking that next door to these Terracotta Warriors is the rest of the mausoleum, with its untold treasures, which remains unexcavated until Chinese archaeologists can figure out better ways to preserve what they unearth. I hope that happens within my lifetime.
Us at the South Gate of Xi'an's Old City Wall
Some of the 6,000+ soldiers in Pit 1
2 comments:
wow thats amazing, i wonder how much money is in the part that they haven't excavated.
it's great to hear your first hand accounts of your adventures - looks like you both enjoyed your time in Beijing.
Looking forward to hear stories from the later half of your trip including Shanghai.
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