Terracotta Warriors

Today was a “pinch myself” kind of day.
Before we headed off to the main attraction, we stopped at a factory where replicas of the Terracotta Warriors are made. We learned about the firing process and the moulds that are used etc. This was also an opportunity to have a replica made of ourselves as a Terracotta Warrior that would be life-size. I was so tempted to do it because I thought it would be very very funny but I was strong and refrained. I did however buy a chess set which I think was quite a good purchase. We then headed off to see the actual Warriors. According to our guide, today was a pretty quiet day which shocked me because there were so many people and it was very hot. He showed us a video of a crowded day and people waited over two hours just to get through checkpoint one. Thank goodness it was nothing like that today.

Upon entry we stood overlooking Pit One and I just couldn’t believe I was actually seeing this incredible archeological discovery. There are apparently over 8000 warriors on display and new ones are being uncovered and renovated all the time.
The story of its discovery and restoration is absolutely incredible. I can’t imagine how the archeologist (who stumbled across a farmer selling “old pottery hands” at the local markets) must’ve felt when he made his way out to the farm to see where the relics were found, and then stumbled across such profound discovery.
Each face is unique, made in the image of fellow sculptors. There are soldiers, archers and horses in varying levels of restoration. We also saw a pit that is yet to be excavated but technology has shown that additional warriors are indeed buried below.
It’s amazing to think that if I come back in 10-15 years there will be even more warriors to see!
What another incredible day.

We were all marvelling at how lucky we are to experience this. Then, after a banquet lunch with our friends that we have made on this trip, we boarded the bus back to the train station for another high-speed journey out to Zhengzhou.
My swelling feet are driving me crazy so I definitely need to see the doctor before my next trip.
Liam ventured out to grab some dinner whilst I sat with my legs up the wall.Read more