Early Chinese culture in Shaanxi

Shaanxi province has evidence of human civilization dating back to prehistory. It remained the political heart of China until the 9th century ce. Its capital, Xi’an, enjoyed a reputation akin to that of Rome and Constantinople as one of the greatest cities in the world. It was here that China reached the zenith of imperial power during the Tang Dynasty, established in 618. This period was truly China’s Golden Age, with economic success, territorial acquisitions and political stability.

Today the city of Xi’an is chiefly known for the machinations of China’s infamous Qing Qin Shi Huangdi, the Yellow Emperor. He was especially noted for commissioning gigantic building projects, most notably an early version of the current Great Wall of China and the city-sized mausoleum guarded by his terracotta soldiers.