Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor

#36 among destinations in China

Mausoleum, Unesco

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Facts and practical information

The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, located in Shaanxi Province, China, is an ancient architectural marvel and a testimony to the grandeur of China’s first imperial dynasty. Constructed over 38 years, from 246 to 208 BCE, this mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, known for unifying China and founding the Qin Dynasty.

Spanning over 56 square kilometers, the mausoleum is a vast complex that includes the emperor’s burial mound, which remains unexcavated, and a surrounding necropolis filled with terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots. These terracotta figures, discovered in 1974, are life-sized and were meant to protect the emperor in the afterlife. Each warrior has distinct facial features, clothing, and weaponry, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Chinese artisans.

The site is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and offers profound insights into the Qin Dynasty's military, cultural, and political life. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, underlining its global historical and cultural significance.

Local name: 秦始皇陵 Unesco: from 1987Coordinates: 34°22'45"N, 109°15'7"E

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ShaanxiChina

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Day trips

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Terracotta Army, Li, Huaqing Pool, Lintong District.

1.3 miE
Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor
Terracotta Army
35 min walk • The Terracotta Army is an extraordinary archaeological discovery and a museum that captures the grandeur of ancient China. Unearthed in 1974 near Xi'an, in Shaanxi province, this formidable collection of terracotta sculptures represents the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the...
2.8 miSW
Park
Li
71 min walk • Li, China, is a unique place that captivates with its park, an oasis of peace and natural beauty. This picturesque nook offers visitors not only the chance to relax among lush vegetation but also the opportunity to admire traditional Chinese garden art.
2.5 miSW
Mountain hot springs in a serene setting
Huaqing Pool
65 min walk • Huaqing Pool, or the Huaqing Hot Springs, are a complex of hot springs located in an area characterized by mild weather and scenic views at the northern foot of Mount Li, one of the three major peaks of the Qinling. The Huaqing Hot Springs are located approximately 25 kilometers east of Xi'an, in the province of Shaanxi, China.
2.5 miW
City, Neighbourhood
Lintong District
65 min walk • Lintong District, formerly Lintong County, is one of 11 urban districts of the prefecture-level city of Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, Northwest China.