The Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army is a collection of life-sized statues that were buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, around 210-209 BCE. Discovered in 1974 near Xi'an, the army consists of over 8,000 soldiers, horses, and chariots, all made from clay. They were intended to protect the emperor in the afterlife, reflecting the beliefs and military might of ancient China. Each figure is unique, showcasing detailed craftsmanship and varying ranks among the soldiers. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the greatest archaeological finds in history.