CHINA Standing Guard Through History - Xian,
China
Some 720 miles southwest of Beijing lays the ancient
Chinese capital of Xian (pronounced shee-ANN). In
1974 some farmers digging in their fields uncovered
a terra-cotta figure of a warrior. Chinese archaeologists
subsequently excavated some 2000 of these warriors,
each showing individual features.
The warriors were guarding the tomb of the great
emperor Qin Shi Huangdi, builder of The Great Wall.
The tomb itself has been located, but archaeologists
have decided not to open it until the artifacts
can be better protected. The warriors and their
horses stand four abreast, in full battle formation.
Originally brightly painted, the terra-cotta figures
now show a uniform red-clay appearance. The horses
remain alert; the chariots are ready to roll.
Qin Shi ruled China over 2000 years ago. Altogether,
Xian is known for 12 dynasties of rules, five dynasties
of which are of major importance. The city enjoyed
a 2000-year window of prosperity, 1000 B.C. 1000
A.D., before power finally shifted to Beijing. In
the 11th century Xian was the largest city in the
world, with over a million residents.
From Xian, in 138 A.D., the first scouts were sent
west to the Middle East (and eventually Europe)
along a road that became known for its precious
trading commodity … silk. Silk from China was once
worth its weight in gold in the streets of ancient
Rome. The Silk Road brought China in contact with
many countries.
Marco Polo became an articulate recorder of the
greatness of Xian and China in the 13th century.
The country’s cultural attainments surpassed, in
his judgment, anything that Europe offered.
The city of Xian also has much to offer the traveler.
At the remarkable Xhaanxi Museum you can observe
114 huge stone tablets with ancient Chinese writing
carved into them. One tablet, from the 8th century,
notes the presence of Christianity in China in the
7th century. The Xhaanxi Museum displays one of
China’s most important collections of ancient artifacts.
Xian has preserved its ancient city walls, adding
character to the setting.
The colorful city market sells everything from
wild mushrooms to eel. The Friendship Store is well
stocked with carvings, silk, ceramics such as cloisonné
vases and cotton textiles. In the evening, one of
the most interesting and entertaining shows in China
today is the Tang Dynasty Show, recreating the dance,
music and even the musical instruments of the Tang
court.
There are numerous 4- and 5-star hotels in Xian,
and many others for the more moderate budget. Xian
has an international airport, and is also connected
by railway to most points in China.
Geo Quiz
1. What is the Inuit name for Mt. McKinley?
2. The Seychelles are off the coast of which continent?
3. The Skylon Tower overlooks which tourist destination?
4. In which country could your clients see Neuschwanstein,
the inspiration for Walt Disney’s castles?
5. In which country is the Mato Grosso Plateau?
Answers:
1. Denali
2. Africa
3. Niagara Falls
4. Germany
5. Brazil
