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Historic architecture in Xi'an, China
Xi'an, China

Xi'an

Travel photography from Xi'an, Shaanxi, featuring the ancient City Wall, the Drum and Bell Towers, and the Terracotta Army at Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum.

Xi’an – Ancient Capital of China

Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi province, served as the seat of power for more than a dozen Chinese dynasties and marked the eastern starting point of the Silk Road. Today its historic core is still ringed by monumental fortifications, with centuries-old landmarks standing alongside the modern city.

City Wall, Drum & Bell Towers

The Xi’an City Wall is one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China, its broad ramparts, gate towers, and watchtowers enclosing the old town. At the centre, the Drum Tower and Bell Tower rise above the streets, their tiered roofs and painted eaves at their most striking when lit at dusk.

The Terracotta Army

Just outside the city, Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum houses the Terracotta Army – thousands of clay warriors and horses buried to guard China’s first emperor. Wide views across the excavation pits sit alongside closer studies of faces, armour, and craftsmanship.

Interactive Expedition Map

Xi'an, China

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