Qin Shi Huang’s famous Terracotta army had a secret weapon: a crossbow with a range of 800m
Archaeologists have discovered more soldiers from China’s iconic Terracotta Army. The discoveries include three Terracotta warriors, three horses and two chariots unearthed from pit No. 2, part of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in Shaanxi province.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the accidental discovery of the Terracotta Army by local farmers in 1974.
Since then, the site has revealed thousands of statues in life size representing soldiers, war horses, chariots and even non-military figures such as acrobats and officials.
Archaeologists estimate the total number of terracotta figures in about 8 thousandbased on the excavation areas and findings from pits no. 1, 2 and 3.
A standout discovery among the recent finds is a terracotta figure believed to represent a senior military officerthe first of its kind in the location.
“Based on his location, we believe this figure was likely the highest-ranking military commander of this unit,” he explained. Zhu Sihongleader of the excavation project in pit no. 2, cited by .
The mausoleum complex, which dates back more than 2,200 years, is located near the current tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huangwhich unified China’s warring states under the Qin dynasty.
In 2020, they had been from Terracotta, the legendary army of Qin Shihuangthe first emperor of China. Historians suggest that the Terracotta Army was intended to protect the emperor in his afterlife.
According to archaeologists, it was the one that led to the death of the Chinese emperor—giving rise to his Terracotta Army.
What continues to fascinate experts and visitors alike is the individuality of each statue. Unlike mass-produced objects, these terracotta figurines present unique characteristicssuch as facial expressions, hairstyles and distinctive clothing.
Some scholars believe that the diversity reflects the various ethnic and cultural groups of the Qin dynasty.
