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
