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The **Terracotta Army** is a vast collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with China's first emperor, **Qin Shi Huang**, to protect him in the afterlife. Discovered in 1974, it's hailed as the **"Eighth Wonder of the World"** and a **UNESCO World Heritage Site**, showcasing ancient China's military power and craftsmanship.
The Terracotta Army was accidentally uncovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well near Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. Archaeologists later identified it as part of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s (259–210 BCE) mausoleum complex, designed to accompany him in the afterlife. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1987), it remains one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
The site consists of three main pits arranged in a triangular formation:
Each life-sized warrior (1.8–2m tall) has unique facial features, hairstyles, and armor, reflecting the Qin dynasty’s military diversity. The figures were originally painted in vibrant colors, though most pigments faded after excavation.
The Terracotta Army is not just a tourist attraction but a testament to ancient China’s ambition, artistry, and military prowess.