Chinese Mausoleum Of The First Qin Emperor In Xi’an
Qin Shi Huang ruled as the King of the Chinese state of Qin from 246 BC until his ascension to the role of Emperor of China in 221 BC. He passed a series of political reforms and was responsible for the beginning of two thousand years of Chinese Imperial rule. He created a national system of roads and the first version of the Great Wall of China.
His most impressive contribution to Chinese history may be the creation of his tomb of life-like terracotta warriors that still stands today. The tomb is located 35 kilometers east of Xian. 720,000 laborers were ordered to begin construction on the tomb when Qin Shi Huang was only 13. Many of the laborers died during construction and were entombed along with the Emperor. It is estimated that there are over 8,000 warriors, 670 horses, and 130 chariots buried in the tomb. Archeologists have also found evidence of rare animals, royals, ministers, and performers buried in satellite tombs that adjoin the main tomb of Qin Shi Huang, which was cast in bronze. Booby traps were installed to discourage grave robbers.
The tomb of Qin Shi Huang was completed just in time for his death in 210 BC.
