Who & How were Terracotta Warriors Discovered?
On March 29, 1974, Terracotta Warriors, an extraordinary archaeological find, were discovered by local farmers in Xi’an, China. This remarkable army of life-sized terracotta warriors were buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, to protect him in the afterlife.
Who First Discovered Terracotta Warriors?
The discoverers of the Terracotta Warriors were farmers from Xiyang Village, Lishan Town, Lintong County in Xi’an, China.
- In March 1974, when farmers from Xiyang Village, Lishan Town, Lintong County were digging a well about 1.5 kilometers east of the mausoleum, the wellhead happened to be at the southeast corner of Pit No.1. They discovered several broken clay – fired terracotta figures as large as real people.
- In mid – July 1974, an archaeological excavation team jointly formed by the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, the Cultural Relics Management Committee, and the Lintong County Cultural Center entered the Terracotta Army pit site.
How Were Terracotta Warriors Found?
Accidental Discovery of Terracotta Warriors
- On March 29, 1974, during a drought in Xiyang Village, Lintong County, Shaanxi Province, villagers including Yang Zhifa and Yang Quanyi dug a well for irrigation.
- While digging near a persimmon forest, they discovered ceramic fragments and parts of a life-sized terracotta figure. Initially thinking they had found a “tile god”, the villagers continued digging.
- As they went deeper, more fragments of terracotta figures and bronze arrowheads emerged.
Professional Excavation of the Terracotta Warriors
- Archaeological experts rushed to Xiyang Village after the discovery of the Terracotta Army in 1974. Through careful exploration, they revealed a large underground military formation.
- This find, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, is invaluable for studying the military, culture, and art of the Qin Dynasty.
The discovery of the Terracotta Warriors has had a profound impact on our understanding of ancient Chinese civilization. From their accidental finding by farmers in 1974 to becoming one of China’s most iconic cultural symbols, these remarkable sculptures continue to captivate scholars and tourists alike. They not only represent an artistic triumph but also offer insights into the beliefs and practices surrounding death in ancient China.