Terra Cotta Warriors

The Terra Cotta Warriors are a collection of thousands of life-sized clay statues representing soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with China's first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, around 210–209 BCE. Discovered in 1974 near Xi'an, these sculptures were created to protect the emperor in the afterlife. Each figure is uniquely detailed, reflecting different ranks and roles within the army. The site is one of the most significant archaeological finds, offering insights into ancient Chinese craftsmanship, military history, and burial practices. The terracotta army exemplifies the grandeur and sophistication of Qin Dynasty China's artistic and cultural achievements.