The Terracotta Army: China’s Underground Army of Clay Warriors

The Terracotta Army is one of the most astonishing archaeological discoveries in the world. Buried in 210–209 BCE with Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, this vast collection of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots was created to protect him in the afterlife.

Each statue is unique, and their heights reflect their rank — the generals stand the tallest, while soldiers and archers are slightly smaller. Together, they form a silent army that once stood ready for battle beneath the earth.

This incredible site was uncovered in 1974 when local farmers stumbled upon fragments of clay figures while digging a well. What they found led to the excavation of thousands of sculptures, revealing an entire underground world that had been hidden for more than 2,000 years.

Visiting the Terracotta Army gives families a chance to walk through history and see craftsmanship that has survived millennia. Add this wonder of the ancient world to your DuckAbroad collection and let your kids discover China’s remarkable past.