Why the Qin Terra Cotta Warriors are special
The Qin Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses in China were buried 2,200 years ago in underground vaults. Their purpose was to guard the nearby tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the emperor who first united China (3rd century BC).
The awe-inspiring vaults are now a museum. The main vault (#1) houses 6,000 life-size terra cotta warriors armed and neatly arrayed in battle formation. Originally, they were colorfully painted.
Each warrior bears a unique facial expression, suggesting that live models were used.
The underground combat-ready soldiers are accompanied by full-size sculpted horses, chariots and more.

Discovered fairly recently
In 1974, the site was accidentally discovered by farmers digging a well. They unearthed a few tell-tale artifacts. Archaeologists quickly stepped in to excavate and restore the long buried and forgotten terra cotta army near the city of Xian.

More discoveries to come
Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb is yet to be excavated. Ancient writings hint that it may contain a wealth of artistic treasures, more striking and precious than those found in King Tut's tomb.

What leading travel books say about the Qin Terra Cotta Warriors
The Qin terra cotta army is China's greatest archaeological attraction.
China
Berlitz Guides

The discovery of the Qin Terracotta Warriors is one of the most significant 20th century finds.
Exploring China
Fodor's