The Terracotta Warriors
It is estimated that the tomb took 38 years to build, between 247 BC and 208 BC, and utilized the labor of over 700,000 conscripts. The Emperor Qin Shi Huang died in 210 BC. The buried army faces east, poised for battle, about three-quarters of a mile from the outer wall of the tomb proper, guarding it.
Xi'an Soldiers Horses Tomb Qin Emperor Shihuangdi
Excavation Xi'an Terra-cotta Soldiers Horses Tomb Qin
Top 10 Fun Facts About the Terracotta Warriors
Here are 10 interesting facts about the terracotta warriors, the life-size clay figures buried with the First Emperor of China. Learn about the history, archaeology, art and modern twists of the Terracotta Warriors.
1. An Army of Unique Faces
No two Terracotta Warriors look alike! Each soldier has distinct facial features, hairstyles, and expressions. Some even bear the names of their creators carved into their bodies - an ancient "quality control" system.
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Terracotta Warriors with unique facial features, hairstyles and expressions
Terracotta Warriors Xi'an
2. They Were Once Colorful
When excavated, the warriors were painted in vibrant red, purple, green, and gold. Sadly, the pigments faded within minutes due to air exposure. Only a few fragments still hint at their original rainbow - like glory.
terracotta soldier with colorful face
Another terra-cotta soldier with distinct facial features, hairstyles and expressions.
3. Ancient "Anti-Rust" Technology
Bronze weapons buried with the army (swords, arrows) remain sharp after 2,200 years! Scientists found a 10-micron-thick chromium oxide layer on them - a rust-proof technique not reinvented until the 20th century.
4. The Missing General
Archaeologists have yet to find a "commander" figure. Theories suggest Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the "First Emperor" saw himself as the ultimate leader, or generals were appointed temporarily in real battles.
5. A Tourist's Wild Stunt
In 2006, a German student disguised himself as a Terracotta Warrior and stood motionless in the pit for 30 minutes before guards noticed! His DIY costume even triggered alarms.
6. They Face East for a Reason
All warriors are positioned facing east - the direction of Qin's defeated rival states. It symbolized his conquests and ambition to rule beyond death.
7. Mercury Rivers Underground
The unopened tomb of Emperor Qin contains mercury levels 100 times higher than normal. Some believe it represents his empire's rivers, while others think it's a poisonous trap for tomb raiders.
8. Giant Soldiers
The warriors average 1.8 meters (5'11") tall, with the tallest reaching 2 meters (6'7")-way above the average height of Qin-era men (about 1.6 meters). Their size was meant to intimidate!
9. A Hollywood-Worthy Heist
In 2017, a U.S. tourist broke off a warrior's thumb and smuggled it out in his backpack. The incident sparked global outrage and stricter protection laws.
10. Celebrity Fans
Famous visitors include Queen Elizabeth II (who joked, "Our royal carriages are less impressive"), Putin (who geeked out over ancient engineering), and Reagan (who yelled "Dismissed!" at the army for fun).
Bonus Interaction Tip: Challenge your friends to mimic a warrior's pose-it looks easy, but holding still for even 5 minutes reveals how brilliantly the sculptors balanced weight and posture!