Xian Information

Xian Information

Xi'an is like the dignified old man who has lived on your street since you were a kid. He's been there forever, always has an interesting story to tell, is proud and commanding, and is always welcoming to visitors.

Xi'an is the capital city of Shaanxi Province in central China and was first settled around 3,000 years ago. It has been the home of more than 70 emperors who ruled the country for a millennia spanning 13 dynasties. The historical importance of this amazing city is irrefutable and throughout the city there are reminders everywhere of it's ancient origins.

Arguably the most famous and important of all of Xi'an's attractions is the Terracotta Army comprising 8,000 warriors made from terracotta, all with unique expressions, stances and facial features. There is also an arsenal of over 30,000 weapons of all descriptions, a hundred chariots and horses, and scores of other incredibly well-preserved relics. The army was constructed around two thousand years ago and it's thought to have taken 750,000 workers almost forty years to complete.

Almost as impressive is the Xi'an City Wall that was built in the 14th century to protect the city from attack during it's prominence in the Silk Road era. The walls stretch for 16 km (10 miles) and surround the ancient city with the old moat still in evidence today. The walls are 12m (40 feet) high and 18m (60 feet) wide and are an ideal way to view the city high above the traffic and throngs of people below.

There are literally hundreds of historical and archaeological sites across the city as well as all the shopping, dining, sightseeing and accommodation experiences you'd expect from a major international city

It is the dignity and spirit of this city that sets it apart from many others. So, climb up on the porch, remove your cap, sip your lemonade and listen closely as this dignified old city tells you some amazing stories.