Xi'an

Western Zhou dynasty Carriages pit2 Xi'an

西安 古城东门 - panoramio

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Meibei Lake,Huyi District,Xi'an

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Train of Line 14 in Xi'an Metro, May 3 2023 (New JC)

Xi'an is the capital city of Shaanxi Province in the People's Republic of China. With a rich history that extends back over 3,000 years, Xi'an is one of the oldest cities in China and is recognized as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. It served as the capital for several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history, including the Qin Dynasty, the Han Dynasty, and the Tang Dynasty. Xi'an is renowned for its significant historical sites and is home to the Terracotta Army, which is considered one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world.

History

Xi'an, known historically as Chang'an before the Ming Dynasty, has been a cultural and political hub of China for centuries. Its strategic location at the eastern end of the Silk Road facilitated not only trade but also cultural exchanges between the East and the West. The city's history is marked by periods of prosperity and decline, reflecting the rise and fall of China's dynasties.

Ancient Capital

As the capital of the Qin Dynasty, Xi'an is where Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, unified the country and began construction of the Great Wall. The city reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty, becoming a cosmopolitan center for culture, trade, and Buddhism. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda were built during this era to store Buddhist scriptures and relics brought from India.

Modern Era

In the 20th century, Xi'an became famous worldwide when the Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by local farmers. This archaeological find consists of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that were buried with Qin Shi Huang to protect him in the afterlife. Today, Xi'an is a vibrant city that blends its historical heritage with modern development.

Geography

Xi'an is situated in the central-northwest part of China, within the Guanzhong Plain. The city is surrounded by the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Wei River to the north, which have historically provided natural defense against invasions. The climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters.

Culture

Xi'an's culture is a reflection of its historical significance. The city is famous for its ancient city wall, which was built during the Ming Dynasty and is one of the most complete city walls that have survived in China. Traditional arts, such as paper cutting, shadow puppetry, and the making of Tang Dynasty replica figurines, are still practiced. The Shaanxi History Museum offers insights into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Xi'an is known for its bold flavors and heavy use of garlic and vinegar. Signature dishes include Yangrou Paomo (a bread and mutton soup), Biángbiáng noodles, and the Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger). The Muslim Quarter in Xi'an is famous for its street food and vibrant night market.

Education and Science

Xi'an is a center for education and research in China, hosting numerous universities and research institutes. Xi'an Jiaotong University and Northwestern Polytechnical University are among the most prestigious. The city is also a hub for China's space exploration and satellite communication industries.

Tourism

Tourism plays a significant role in Xi'an's economy, with the Terracotta Army being the most famous attraction. Other notable sites include the ancient city wall, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, and the Muslim Quarter. The city serves as a starting point for excursions to Mount Hua, one of China's sacred Taoist mountains.

Transportation

Xi'an is a major transportation hub in western China, with extensive rail, road, and air connections. The Xi'an Xianyang International Airport is one of the busiest in China, offering domestic and international flights. The city's metro system facilitates local travel, complementing its bus services and making it easy to explore Xi'an's historical sites and modern amenities.