China: Terracotta and Warriors 2

Back to China again. Once more for the Terracotta Warriors. Last time we looked at Pit #1, this time it's Pit #3 and #2 in that order. #3 is the smallest one. It contained what was a command group for the army. Officers, generals, guards. In a typical arrangement. Pit #2 was the cavalry and archers. This pit isn't as heavily excavated as Pit #1. There are a few examples of what is to be expected in the rest of the area, but they are leaving it alone for the moment. As well there were two 1/3 scale bronze pieces. One a commander chariot with umbrella, and a tortise carriage, which is surmised to be the funeral carriage. Fascinating place to see. Pictures don't really do the whole complex justice.

First though, a panoramic shot I pieced together of Pit #1, just to get you into the concept of the size of part of the place.



Now onto the rest.






























I apologize for the quality of some of the pictures. It was really dark, and you aren't allowed tripods in this museum. Otherwise you could take some real stunning pictures in there.

Lastly, the cherry trees were in full bloom around the museum. It added to the area. We ate lunch in a nearby restaraunt that is owned by the family of the farmer that discovered the soldiers originally. And the final picture is of the tomb mound, Mount Li, of the emperor.








Enjoy.

China: Drum Tower and Environs

Okay, back to China again. In Xian there's the Bell Tower, and the Drum Tower. Both within walking distance so it's easy to see one performance than hurry and see the next performance. Well, we didn't know that, and didn't hurry. We did catch the tail end of the drum performance though. After we walked down a local street had some dinner then wandered through the Muslim market which is also part of the Muslim Quarter. Apparently the Great Mosque of Xian is a place to see. But by about that time we were done for the day and made our way back to the hotel. The next day would be very strenuous. And I will get back to that day...eventually...

Oh, one other thing. Every where I went, people were taking my picture. I returned the favour by taking their picture as well.