The Terracotta Army: 3 Surprising Secrets of China's Ancient Warriors

The Terracotta Army in Xi'an is known as the eighth wonder of the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. This massive underground army is not only astonishing in scale but also hides many incredible historical secrets. Here are three amazing facts about the Terracotta Army that will enhance your cultural experience during your visit.

1. Unique Artistic Wonders

One of the most amazing features of the Terracotta Army is that each figurine has its own unique facial features. Archaeologists have found that out of nearly 8,000 figurines, no two faces are exactly alike; each soldier has different expressions, hairstyles, beards, and even ear shapes.

2. Originally Colorful Army

What we see now are the grey Terracotta figures, but they were originally vibrant and colorful. Archaeological evidence suggests that each figurine was carefully painted with mineral pigments, showcasing realistic skin tones, clothing colors, and armor details. Unfortunately, most of the paint oxidized and fell off within minutes of exposure to air after being buried for over two thousand years.

3. Untapped Archaeological Treasure

Even though three main pits have been excavated, archaeologists believe this is just the tip of the iceberg of the vast burial system of Emperor Qin's mausoleum. Remote sensing technology has indicated that there are many unexcavated burial pits surrounding the already explored areas.

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By learning these fascinating facts, your Terracotta Army journey will transform from mere sightseeing into a rich dialogue with History and Culture spanning two thousand years. Standing before these silent figures, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the power of the Qin Dynasty and the long-standing heritage of Chinese civilization.