# The Tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang: A Treasure Trove of Ancient China
The Tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s First Emperor, is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Located in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province, it is a site that has provided invaluable insights into ancient Chinese history, art, and culture.
## Introduction to Emperor Qin Shi Huang
Emperor Qin Shi Huang, born Ying Zheng in 259 BCE, was the founder of the Qin dynasty and the first emperor of a unified China. His reign, from 221 to 210 BCE, marked a pivotal turning point in Chinese history. He implemented sweeping reforms in politics, military affairs, and culture, and is best known for the unification of China and the construction of the earliest version of the Great Wall.
## Discovery of the Tomb
The site was accidentally unearthed in 1974 by local farmers digging a water well in the Shaanxi province, which led to one of the most remarkable discoveries in China’s archeological history: a vast necropolis built to serve as Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s last resting place.
## The Mausoleum’s Structure
### The Layout
The Emperor’s tomb complex is an expansive necropolis that mimics the urban plan of the capital city, Xianyang. It consists of numerous pits and burial mounds arranged within a walled compound aligned on a north-south axis. The tomb itself is located beneath a prominent mound but has not been excavated fully due to concerns about preservation and the potential hazards of ancient traps and high levels of mercury reputedly flowing in the shape of rivers within it.
### The Terracotta Army
Within the necropolis complex, thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers and horses have been discovered positioned in battle formation in huge pits. These terracotta warriors are considered to be a form of funerary art, intended to protect the emperor in the afterlife. The figures are incredibly detailed with unique facial expressions, hairstyles, and clothing, indicating a high level of craftsmanship and artistry from the period.
## Cultural and Historical Significance
The tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has greatly contributed to our understanding of the Qin Dynasty’s might and the resources at the emperor’s disposal. The mausoleum demonstrates the emperor’s ambition to immortalize his reign and power even beyond death. It’s a reflection of the advanced metallurgical and artistic skill of ancient China and provides insights into the societal structure, military organization, and daily life of the period.
## Preservation and Conservation
To ensure the tomb’s preservation, the Chinese government has put in place several measures. Temperature and humidity control systems are in use to prevent deterioration, and the site is also strictly monitored for pollution. Unexcavated portions of the mausoleum are left untouched until technology advances to a point where they can be explored without risking damage.
## Visiting the Tomb
Today, the site is one of China’s most popular tourist attractions. The museum complex allows visitors to view the terracotta army pits and exhibitions related to the Qin Dynasty, providing a glimpse into an era that shaped the future of China.
## Conclusion
The Tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang remains a treasure trove that continues to astonish and enlighten the world. Its discovery has been instrumental in deepening our understanding of ancient Chinese culture, and it’s a profound testament to the legacy of China’s first emperor.
# FAQs about The Tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang
### Who was Emperor Qin Shi Huang?
Emperor Qin Shi Huang was the first emperor of a unified China and the founder of the Qin Dynasty.
### When was the tomb discovered?
The tomb was discovered in 1974 by local farmers near Xi’an, Shaanxi province, China.
### Why is the tomb so significant?
The tomb’s significance lies in its size, the unique terracotta army designed to protect the emperor in the afterlife, and the wealth of historical information it provides about ancient China.
### Can the tomb itself be visited by tourists?
The actual tomb, located beneath a mound, is yet to be fully excavated and is not open to visitors. However, tourists can visit the Terracotta Army pits and supporting museum complex.
### Why hasn’t the main tomb been excavated?
The main tomb hasn’t been excavated due to concerns about damaging the contents and preserving the artifacts. There’s also believed to be high levels of mercury within, which pose a health risk.
### What makes the Terracotta Army unique?
Each terracotta soldier in the army has individualized features, suggesting that they may have been modeled after real soldiers. The level of detail provides a deeper understanding of ancient Chinese artistry and military organization.
### Is the tomb under threat?
The tomb is under constant threat from environmental factors and human intervention. However, extensive preservation and conservation efforts are being made to protect this irreplaceable historical site.