When China Called: Xi'an Day Yi Part 2

A glimpse of neighboring mountains. Photo Credit: Mohamed Hakim

You can see some red color
decorating the armor of the best
well preserved warrior.
Photo Credit: Mohamed Hakim

      There are three excavation pits on exhibit, and a, fourth, building which serves as more of a museum. The most popular pit, recognizable in photos all over the world, is the oldest of the three, and is straight-ahead and slightly to the left once you're past the second tickets check.

      The oldest pit has a semi excavated area with plenty of restored warriors and horses. Part of the pit, inside the exhibit hall, remains buried. There is also an area reserved for works in restoration, sometimes referred to as the hospital.

Chinese tourists visit the museum too. After all, China is huge and there is no shortage of things to see

      The next pit is much deeper but smaller in area. It includes an intriguing display of a group of warriors, surrounding what might've been a table, thought to be in a meeting to discuss war strategy.

      The final pit is almost completely buried. I’m told, in hopes of preserving the colors of the warriors until further development of excavation and preservation techniques is achieved. Instead, this exhibit hall includes a display of the most well-preserved statue and statues of a few higher-ranking officers. It also includes a display of some of the weapons found in the excavation site i.e., museum grounds. Most interestingly, a sword that remains sharp to this day.

Chrome plated sword dating back 2000+ years. Photo Credit: Mohamed Hakim

      As you walk to the fourth exhibit hall look over your right shoulder. In the distance, you can see some of the mountains in the area. I’m told, they are the reason there are many jade pieces for sale in Xi’an.

One of two carriages on display at the final
exhibit hall. Photo Credit: Mohamed Hakim

      The final exhibit hall houses partially restored passenger chariots, even of the king! Also, a number of newly discovered and restored statues, and a display of the differences between the terra cotta statues and much smaller statues from the later period of the Han.

            To be continued...

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You can find the previous post in the series at: When China Called: Xi'an Day Yi Part 1