Zhaoling, this majestic mausoleum, stands quietly atop the main peak of Jiuyi Mountain in Liquan County, Shaanxi Province. It is the joint burial site of Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, and Empress Wende, Zhangsun. As the largest of the 18 Tang Tombs in Guanzhong, its grand scale, vast area, numerous accompanying tombs, and rich cultural relics are all breathtaking.
🕰️ The construction of Zhaoling took 13 years, from the initial burial of Empress Wende in the 10th year of the Zhenguan reign to the interment of Emperor Taizong, Li Shimin, in the 23rd year of the Zhenguan reign. It embodied the wisdom and dedication of countless craftsmen. Meticulously designed and overseen by Yan Lide, Zhaoling is more than just a mausoleum; it is a silent history book, telling the glorious chapter of the Tang Dynasty's prosperity.
🌳 The location of Jiuyi Mountain is truly blessed. Surrounded by mountains, the winding Jing River flows through it, and before it lies the vast Guanzhong Plain, with the Wei River flowing through it like a jade belt. This geographical location is not only excellent for feng shui but also symbolizes peace and prosperity, perfectly complementing the achievements of Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, in both civil and military affairs.
🐎 The "Six Horses of Zhaoling" are undoubtedly the crowning jewels of the mausoleum. These six steeds, loyal companions of Li Shimin throughout his campaigns, are immortalized in high-relief stone carvings at the mausoleum's edge. Each steed possesses a unique posture and expression, as if narrating the days of war and battle. Sadly, "Salu Zi" and "Quanmao Gu" were stolen and shipped to the United States, leaving a lasting legacy for the Chinese people. Today, the remaining four are treasured in the Xi'an Forest of Steles Museum, attracting countless visitors to see their splendor.
🏺 In addition to the "Six Horses of Zhaoling," numerous precious cultural relics have been unearthed from the mausoleum, including statues of chieftains from fourteen states, exquisite pottery figurines, and vibrant Tang Dynasty sancai (three-colored glazed pottery). These artifacts are not only artistic treasures but also vivid reflections of the prosperity and prosperity of the "Zhenguan Reign" during the heyday of the Tang Dynasty. From various perspectives, they showcase the remarkable achievements of the time, encompassing economic, social, and cultural fields, offering a glimpse into the splendor and grandeur of that era.
👑 The system of accompanying burials at Zhaoling is also unique. Emperor Taizong of Tang issued an edict requiring meritorious officials, close relatives, and those who assisted his time in their deeds to be buried alongside him. This measure not only demonstrated his deep affection for his deputies but also underscored the harmonious relationship between the emperor and his subjects during the Tang Dynasty. According to statistics, a total of 154 individuals were buried there, including renowned figures such as Zhangsun Wuji, Cheng Yaojin, and Wei Zheng. Their tombs, like stars surrounding the moon, form a vast complex of accompanying burials within the 300,000-mu (approximately 1,000 acres) Zhaoling cemetery. Many ministers considered it an honor to be buried there, and even their descendants followed their fathers' example. This orderly tradition of accompanying burials has become a unique historical hallmark of Zhaoling.
🌟 Today, Zhaoling has been designated a first-tier National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit and a National AAAA-level Tourist Attraction, attracting visitors from all corners of the world. When you step into this ancient land, it is as if you have traveled through time and space and returned to the magnificent Tang Dynasty.