During a monumental excavation at the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, a trove of exquisitely preserved relics emerged, shedding light on the lavish funeral customs of the Qin dynasty.
Archaeological excavation at Qin Shi Huang’s tomb. Photo: Qin Shi Huang Tomb Museum
As reported by The Global Times, recent excavations from pit No. The cake was remarkably intact.
The Qin Shi Huang Emperor Mausoleum Relics Museum has announced groundbreaking discoveries, including not only the chariot but also countless relics demonstrating the lavish burial customs of ancient China.
Buried deep underground for more than two millennia, the wooden chariot is an impressive 7.2 meters long, decorated with a multicolored painted hood that reflects the craftsmanship of that era.
Archaeologists excavated pit number 1 of Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum. Photo: CNS
Traveling with the chariots, archaeologists have unearthed animal bones, riding gear and remains of other wooden chariots, painting a vivid picture of the funerary rites practiced during the period. Qin Dynasty.
Jiang Wenxiao, the lead archaeologist overseeing the excavation, suggested the carriage could have been used as a hearse to transport coffins, revealing a rare glimpse into the funeral traditions of China’s upper class. Ancient country.
“This discovery brings new insights into Qin Dynasty burial customs, especially those related to high-status tombs,” Jiang commented.
What is especially notable is the pristine condition of the bronze fittings used to fasten the wooden parts of the chariot, suggesting that the site remained undisturbed by tomb raiders – something rarely seen in archaeological excavations on this scale.
Chinese archaeologist Lu Zhaojun emphasized the meticulous planning and expertise required for such a thorough excavation, noting the daunting challenge posed to grave robbers.
In addition to the chariot, the pit also contains a variety of relics crafted from ceramic, bronze, jade and precious metals, emphasizing the lavish burial customs synonymous with the Qin Dynasty.
Some relics were excavated from the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang. Photo: CNS
Golden relics excavated from Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum. Photo: CNS
The excavation of pit No. 1, which began in 2013, has emerged as a real treasure trove, continuously surprising researchers with countless unprecedented discoveries.
Among the most famous finds are more than 200 terracotta warriors and 16 terracotta horses, unearthed during excavations that lasted from 2009 to 2022. These statues, crafted using the technique advanced, featuring detachable arms meticulously attached to its torso—a testament to the artistic prowess of ancient craftsmen.
Accompanying the terracotta army are countless ornate weapons and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the cultural and martial arts heritage of Qin Dynasty China.
As excavations at Qin Shi Huang’s tomb continue to unravel the mysteries of China’s ancient past, each discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the rich historical tapestry woven inside the emperor’s tomb.