Refer China: Shocking Incident ：Tourist Jumps into Terracotta Army in CHN and

-

In a startling and unfortunate event, a tourist in China leaped into a section of the world-renowned Terracotta Army, causing significant damage to two of the ancient clay statues. The 30-year-old man, identified only by his surname Sun, bypassed guardrails and protective netting at the museum in Xi'an, where the clay warriors are housed.

The Incident

On Friday, Sun reportedly jumped over the safety barriers and protective netting, landing in a pit that is 18 feet deep. He then began pushing and pulling the priceless statues, resulting in visible damage to two of the figures. Museum security quickly intervened and subdued the intruder, preventing further damage.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have confirmed that Sun suffers from a mental illness. An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances leading up to the incident and to assess the full extent of the damage. The breach of safety measures has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of the museum's security protocols.

The Terracotta Army: A National Treasure

The Terracotta Army is a collection of over 8,000 life-sized soldiers created approximately 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. This archaeological marvel is considered one of the country's greatest treasures and has held UNESCO World Heritage status since 1987. The site attracts millions of visitors each year.

Discovery and Significance

The figures, dating from the late 200s BCE, were discovered on March 29, 1974, by local farmers in Lintong County, outside Xi'an, Shaanxi, China. The statues vary in height according to their rank, with the tallest being the generals. The collection includes warriors, chariots, and horses, with estimates suggesting that the three pits hold over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses. Many of these figures remain in the pits near the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum.

Ongoing Excavations

Over the past 50 years, archaeologists have discovered some 600 pits across a 22-square-mile area, revealing a complex of underground vaults. The site features long columns of warriors, reassembled from broken pieces, standing in formation, dressed in tunics or armored vests, and wearing their hair in buns. Another pit within the museum demonstrates how the figures appeared when they were found, with some standing upright and others lying toppled alongside cracked clay horses.

Response and Future Steps

Despite the incident, the museum remains open to the public. Officials are working swiftly to assess and repair the damage caused by Sun. A museum staff member reassured visitors that the exhibit is still accessible, with enhanced security measures being implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Editor: CH