Quirks of Chinese History Tales from the Past
Quirks of Chinese History: Tales from the Past
The Great Wall's Missing Sections
The Great Wall of China, an iconic symbol of ancient Chinese engineering and military prowess, is often touted as the longest structure ever built. However, what many tourists and history buffs don't know is that a significant portion of the wall has gone missing over time due to natural erosion and human activities. In fact, some sections have been so badly damaged or destroyed that they are barely recognizable today.
The Forbidden City's Hidden Gardens
Located in the heart of Beijing lies the majestic Forbidden City, once home to 24 emperors during China's Ming dynasty (1368-1644). What many visitors overlook is that beneath its grand halls and temples lie hidden gardens filled with lush greenery and tranquil water features. These secret oases served as private retreats for royalty seeking solace from their official duties.
The Terracotta Army's Forgotten Pit
In 1974, farmers stumbled upon a life-size army made entirely out of terracotta in Xi'an - one which would later be dubbed as "the eighth wonder of the world." But did you know there was a forgotten pit containing thousands more soldiers? This lesser-known area remained undiscovered until 2006 when archaeologists unearthed it after decades spent excavating other parts of this sprawling complex.
Marco Polo's Silk Road Adventures
Italian explorer Marco Polo traveled extensively throughout Asia during his youth before becoming famous for his journeys along the Silk Road trade route between Europe and Asia around 1275-1295 AD. His book detailing these adventures became an instant bestseller in Europe upon its return with him; however little known is how he learned Mandarin by listening to merchants who frequented his family-owned trading post at Venice.
Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi's Tomb Treasures
Qin Shi Huangdi - founder of China’s first imperial dynasty (221 BCE) - was buried with a vast array including bronze chariots pulled by horses made from solid gold; jade statues representing mythical creatures like dragons; porcelain figurines depicting various animals such as elephants & giraffes; even clockwork models designed to mimic real-life objects like birds flying overhead!
6.Liu Bang vs Xiang Yu: A Tale Of Two Leaders
Liu Bang eventually emerged victorious against Xiang Yu following years-long civil wars leading up to founding Han Dynasty (206 BCE), while Xiang Yu lost everything despite having superior numbers on hand at Red Cliffs Battle in 208 BC where both sides suffered heavy casualties but ultimately ended up defeated though not without putting up quite fierce fight before meeting defeat by drowning himself into river after realizing all hope had been lost!
