Xian Surprise

---

The terra cotta warriors were one of the major highlights of this trip and they did not disappoint us. Norma says all the pictures in National Geographic over the years came true and ,although I had been there before, much development of the site has taken place in the last six years which enhances the whole experience. The huge pit #1 with its thousands of soldiers standing rank on rank are awe-inspiring but now there are more pits open and museum displays where you can get up close and personal to them in the flesh or rather clay in glass cases. There is also a 360 degree movie about the history of the site which is worthwhile.
The wonders of the terra cotta warriors and the bronze chariots were expected but we had a delightful unexpected and unscheduled visit to a comparable site which we had never heard of before. Not only that but it is virtually unknown and there were no crowds to distract our appreciation. This is the Han Yang Ling site, based on the emperor of the Western Han Dynasty, on a plain close to the new Xian airport which also has his Empress' tomb and nine other imperial tombs - most of which have not been excavated. Han Yang Ling also has thousands of terra cotta warriors but they are not life-size, being about two feet tall and anatomically correct so that you can distinguish between the male, female and eunuch figurines. There are over 20 excavated pits and several were devoted to animals - horses, cows, pigs, dogs, sheep and goats which would provide feasts for the emperor in the afterlife - plus dancers, musicians etc to entertain him.
The museum is state of the art displays with glass walkways over the excavations which get you right into the experience. The Han Yang Ling site is not to be missed and, once it is marketed, it will be as busy as the terra cotta warriors. Don't miss it if you are in the area.

---

Photos

The Terra Cotta Warriors
This is one of the excavated pits of these life sized warriors

Visitors view the main pits at Xian
The excavation is covered by a structure the size of an aircraft hangar.

Terra Cotta Warrior
One of the excavated warriors on display

Chariot
The chariots, harness and horses are incredibly detailed

Imperial Carriage
Another carriage found in the main pits at Xian.

Anatomically correct figures
These are from the recently opened Han Yang Ling site

Pig statue
One of the hundreds of animal figurines at the Han Yang Ling site

Terra Cotta Herd
Masses of small animal figures have been found at the Han Yan Ling site.

Kneeling servant
The are many figures of musicians and servants at Han Yang Ling

Comments

[Carol]

What a great trip!!!
Hi Guys, Stuart and I have really enjoyed reading your journals. We feel like we're right there with you. Norma you're going to need another holiday when you get back. I can' believe how many interesting and exciting places you have visited. Norma, does this mean another slide show-like Italy. Enjoy the rest of your holiday and we'll see you soon.